A/C Compressor Clutch: Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Intrepid, 2004 Chrysler Intrepid, 2004 Chrysler Concorde, and 2004 Chrysler 300M. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
When the clutch coil is energized, it magnetically draws the clutch into contact with the pulley and drives the compressor shaft. When the coil is not energized, the pulley freewheels on the clutch hub bearing, which is part of the pulley. The compressor clutch and coil are the only serviced parts on the compressor.
The compressor clutch engagement is controlled by several components: the a/c heater control head (ATC or MTC), the evaporator temperature sensor, the a/c pressure transducer, the compressor clutch relay, and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM may delay compressor clutch engagement for up to thirty seconds. Refer to ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES .