Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS

mcdanida · 07-04-2008, 09:37 AM

Hello all! I am stomped with an A/C problem in which my accumulator/drier is frosting up with as much as 1/8" of ice? I am fairly certain this frost continues along into my evaporator, although it is covered via blower assembly. Air is super-cool, measured at 38F, go figure. I cannot complain, but also do not wish my system to collapse on me.

I do not believe my compressor is cycling, i.e., clutch engaging/disengaging like it should? Also, when A/C is running I notice belt squeek sound when I begin moving my truck, 1st, 2nd, and into 3rd gear. My pressure checks fine at freon inlet port on accumulator at 30psi.

Any advice is appreciated. I'd like to start simple before replacing high $$$ items like compressor. Could it be the pressure sensor switch? Does this switch control compressor clutch cycling?

Thanks for any help!

S10dude · 07-04-2008, 09:58 AM

is this in the max air setting ...is the temp switch at its coldest?..compressor will not cycle unless you set temp switch to warmer setting...

mine blows 40deg air and frosts up..always has and i've never had a problem..

i believe your pressure should be above 32..i can't remember?

Yogi · 07-04-2008, 12:45 PM

Check your pressure with all windows up, A/C on Max with fan on High. Give it 5 minutes to stabilize. If the outside air temp is above 80*, put a fan in front of the radiator.

poconojoe · 07-04-2008, 12:50 PM

What is the RH% outside, when it's icing up. It just sounds like it's condensing the moisure in the air and freezing it

Yogi · 07-04-2008, 01:03 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by poconojoe

What is the RH% outside, when it's icing up. It just sounds like it's condensing the moisure in the air and freezing it

That's the problem. It should not be freezing. If the accumulator is freezing, then the evap. is freezing too, and a frozen evap. will ice over and loose airflow! The low pressure switch is supposed to prevent this.

mcdanida · 07-05-2008, 11:07 AM

VERY HUMID, live in VA Beach! Hot, Humid during summer. I am going to try a low cost fix and report back to you guys:

http://www.partsamerica.com/productd...rtNumber=20910

Hopefully this switch will be the problem, A/C, no matter what setting, compressor always on.

Yogi · 07-05-2008, 12:11 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by mcdanida

VERY HUMID, live in VA Beach! Hot, Humid during summer. I am going to try a low cost fix and report back to you guys:

http://www.partsamerica.com/productd...rtNumber=20910

Hopefully this switch will be the problem, A/C, no matter what setting, compressor always on.

I've never seen a switch like that. It may be the high pressure comp. switch. The low pressure switch looks more like this:
http://www.oreillyauto.com/EW3/ProductDetail.do?id=1043553821&line=MRY&itemNumber =36674&manualReplCategoryIndex=1&vehicle=1993CHEVR OLETS10%20PICKUPV6-262%20%204.3L&bid=1215270488720&cycleCount=1072&cu rrentPage=0

Look at the side of the accumulator and see which switch you have.

lesterl · 07-06-2008, 12:05 PM

My mother inlaws compressor started to squeek then squeel, then it had to have a new compressor, it was a dodge tho, you say airflow across evap is good, how about condenser?

Redsdime · 07-06-2008, 01:42 PM

dont buy a used one bc i have gone through 4 now on my fifth one but its out of a 1500 that had the 4.3 in it and its worked good it just looks a lil different im not sure if the 4.3 s and the 2.2s were the same compressors tho

lesterl · 07-06-2008, 07:42 PM

You said Max AC is ok, might check and see if you have outside air filtration on your system if it is choking the airflow back you will have issues like that. Had that problem on my wifes Venture.

mcdanida · 07-07-2008, 08:20 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi

I've never seen a switch like that. It may be the high pressure comp. switch. The low pressure switch looks more like this:
http://www.oreillyauto.com/EW3/ProductDetail.do?id=1043553821&line=MRY&itemNumber =36674&manualReplCategoryIndex=1&vehicle=1993CHEVR OLETS10%20PICKUPV6-262%20%204.3L&bid=1215270488720&cycleCount=1072&cu rrentPage=0

Look at the side of the accumulator and see which switch you have.

Dangit! I bought the wrong part, 20910, and now I'm noticing it is the 36659 switch! I can't find ANYTHING that remotely looks like P/N 20910 under my hood?

Here: http://www.oreillyauto.com/EW3/gpi?id=1587535049

It's located right below my accumulator on the lower line.

Yogi, what exactly does this switch do?

Yogi · 07-07-2008, 11:58 AM

As the pressure of the refrigerant in the evaporator goes lower, the temp. also goes lower. If the press. gets too low, ice will form on the evap. surface, closing off airflow through the evap, which makes the evap. colder which causes more ice.... and the cycle goes on and on. The low pressure switch senses this low press. and cuts off the compressor. When the refrigerant flow ceases, the evap. warms up, ice melts, and airflow is restored. The low pressure switch senses that pressure is back to normal and restarts the compressor. This cycling is most noticeable with the A/C on Max, cool temperatures inside the truck and blower speed on 1.

mcdanida · 07-08-2008, 08:14 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi

As the pressure of the refrigerant in the evaporator goes lower, the temp. also goes lower. If the press. gets too low, ice will form on the evap. surface, closing off airflow through the evap, which makes the evap. colder which causes more ice.... and the cycle goes on and on. The low pressure switch senses this low press. and cuts off the compressor. When the refrigerant flow ceases, the evap. warms up, ice melts, and airflow is restored. The low pressure switch senses that pressure is back to normal and restarts the compressor. This cycling is most noticeable with the A/C on Max, cool temperatures inside the truck and blower speed on 1.

STRIKE 2 - I found out yesterday the two clutch cycle switches are exactly alike, and do not fit my 2003 S-10 Extended Cab LS A/C system

http://www.partsamerica.com/product_.../faa/20910.jpg - 20910

http://www.partsamerica.com/product_.../faa/36659.jpg - 36659

Close, but no cigar, how do I find the right part?

5timedime · 07-08-2008, 09:35 AM

you can always go to the dealer. it'll be more expensive, but you'll be more likely to get the right part. good luck

Yogi · 07-08-2008, 12:57 PM

Go to this page and check item #3, Switch #36674, and see if that looks like it.

mcdanida · 07-09-2008, 08:28 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi

Go to this page and check item #3, Switch #36674, and see if that looks like it.

Honestly, Yogi, I cannot tell? How about this, I will try to attach some pics of the accumulator/drier freezing, the evaporator line clearly indicating it is frozen, and the switch itself. See if you can decipher anything from these pics? Thanks a bunch:

Yogi · 07-09-2008, 11:42 AM

I'm striking out on locating a switch like that. IDK why. I guess that you might have to go to the dealer. Sorry.

mcdanida · 07-09-2008, 11:46 AM

Thanks Yogi, I figured I might have to visit Satan (dealer)

.

Although another option is a mechanic I know that specializes in Auto A/C. He recently checked out wife's A/C, found she was slightly low on charge, charged the A/C but charged her NOTHING for the service. He's a good guy!

Yogi · 07-09-2008, 11:50 AM

He sounds like the man you ought to see!

mcdanida · 07-09-2008, 01:14 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi

He sounds like the man you ought to see!

Well Yogi, this might be my last post until I must pay the big bucks - your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

I went ahead and started car, turned on A/C and noticed absolutely ZERO cycling of the compressor clutch (always on). Then I pulled the plug to the pressure cycling switch, and low & behold, the compressor clutch disengages. Did that a few times, and each time clutch disengages.

I'm starting to really think it's this Pressure switch, so I pulled it off my line and noticed a P/N 2264328 and confirmed that is the genuine GM part. Problem is, the dealer wants $70 (I know that's WAY overpriced)

How can I find its compatable or a much cheaper price for this part??

Do you think this switch is the problem?

beandip · 07-09-2008, 01:51 PM

try gmpartsdirect.com for your pressure switch.

gmparts wants $25 for the switch. $36.15 shipped.

#25

Yogi · 07-09-2008, 02:06 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by mcdanida

Well Yogi, this might be my last post until I must pay the big bucks - your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

I went ahead and started car, turned on A/C and noticed absolutely ZERO cycling of the compressor clutch (always on). Then I pulled the plug to the pressure cycling switch, and low & behold, the compressor clutch disengages. Did that a few times, and each time clutch disengages.

I'm starting to really think it's this Pressure switch, so I pulled it off my line and noticed a P/N 2264328 and confirmed that is the genuine GM part. Problem is, the dealer wants $70 (I know that's WAY overpriced)

How can I find its compatable or a much cheaper price for this part??

Do you think this switch is the problem?

Do you still have the pressure gauge?

If so, install the gauge and turn on the a/c. Run it for a while with all of the windows up, on Max setting, fan on high. Give it 10 minutes to cool the truck down. Then, leave it on Max with windows up and put the fan on low. Accumulator should start sweating and compressor should start cycling as the pressure drops to about 28-30. I can't remember the exact pressure for R 134, but the pressure should drop and the comp. should cycle. Accumulator will frost up and then thaw out as comp. cycles. If pressure drops but comp. does not cycle, the press. switch is bad.

mcdanida · 07-13-2008, 06:51 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi

Do you still have the pressure gauge?

If so, install the gauge and turn on the a/c. Run it for a while with all of the windows up, on Max setting, fan on high. Give it 10 minutes to cool the truck down. Then, leave it on Max with windows up and put the fan on low. Accumulator should start sweating and compressor should start cycling as the pressure drops to about 28-30. I can't remember the exact pressure for R 134, but the pressure should drop and the comp. should cycle. Accumulator will frost up and then thaw out as comp. cycles. If pressure drops but comp. does not cycle, the press. switch is bad.

Yogi, I give up, I replaced the pressure/clutch cycle switch. She still freezes up. I've handed over to my mechanic, to repair that as well as the other problems I'm having. This is not normal to me with S-10's, maybe the newer have more problems with all the bells and whistles and sensors, etc., but my two previos S-10's never had any major problems whatsoever, actually simple fixes, a clutch slave cylinder, a water pump, were the most difficult issues with the '91 I had, and it was a cinch.

Yogi · 07-14-2008, 12:45 PM

It could be slightly overfilled. May be as simple as letting a little refrigerant out to solve the problem.

mcdanida · 07-14-2008, 01:13 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi

It could be slightly overfilled. May be as simple as letting a little refrigerant out to solve the problem.

Would this scenario cause the clutch to not cycle? Run continuously?

beandip · 07-14-2008, 01:41 PM

wait... i just noticed from re-reading the tread.... the A/C compressor cycles??? like turns on and off?

mine doesnt it just runs all the time and the A/C is cold (40ºF), or am i just reading it wrong?

mcdanida · 07-14-2008, 01:51 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by beandip

wait... i just noticed from re-reading the tread.... the A/C compressor cycles??? like turns on and off?

mine doesnt it just runs all the time and the A/C is cold (40ºF) and the accumulator doesnt freeze.

Well beandip, consider yourself lucky. Mine doesn't cycle either, and YES, I also have some cold-ass air (39F), but unfortunately my accum. & coil freezes almost with 1/8" or more ice!

beandip · 07-14-2008, 01:59 PM

mine just has condensation.

found some info from another thread and answered my own question.

Quote:

only the 4.3 a/c systems are designed to cycle the compressor on and off. The 2.2 allegedly has a variable stroke compressor that changes up its stroke to stay with whatever set operating parameters. As I stated before when it's working it blows ice cold, however sitting still while idling it will start cycling the compressor on and off

seems if the 2.2L A/C system is cycling then something is wrong.

and also the following..

Quote:

Freezing can also occur from incomplete evacuation of the system as the residual water will freeze. I hope you used a vacuum pump (min 1.2-1.5 cfm) and longer the better some say min 30 minutes but longer the better as it will not hurt. i evacuated for 120 min.

Yogi · 07-14-2008, 02:14 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by mcdanida

Would this scenario cause the clutch to not cycle? Run continuously?

Yes.

Beandip: They're talking about freezing inside the refrigerant piping in that quote that you listed. Incomplete evacuation causes the residual moisture inside the system to freeze. When the compressor does not cycle, and there is adequate refrigerant, freezing will occur on the outside of the evaporator and the accumulator/dryer. The low pressure switch is supposed to cycle the compressor to prevent this freezing because it can clog the evaporator, and the air will not get cooled.

mcdanida · 07-14-2008, 02:21 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by beandip

mine just has condensation.

found some info from another thread and answered my own question.

seems if the 2.2L A/C system is cycling then something is wrong.

and also the following..

GREAT! Now I'm finding my clutch IS SUPPOSED to run constantly? What the hell is the purpose of the clutch/pressure cycling switch?

What the hell, it's in the mechanic's hands now.

beandip · 07-14-2008, 02:23 PM

well, im a noob at A/C systems but good at finding info. maybe on the 2.2 its just a pressure switch but labeled as a pressure cycling switch

either way its suppose to prevent the system from running on low pressure.

i will post up the links to the threads i found with that info.

:EDIT:

http://www.s10forum.com/forum/f105/a-c-question-259953/

http://www.s10forum.com/forum/f107/a...s-here-360547/

http://www.s10forum.com/forum/f105/a...re-out-196266/

jhankinson · 07-14-2008, 02:30 PM

On a 2.2l system it is NOT a cycling switch. Its a pressure cutoff switch. If you lose pressure it wont allow the A/C to turn on. And yes is has a Variable Displacement compressor which means it will never cycle. If it is freezing up it is your compressor that is bad. The Variable Displacement inside the compressor is not adjusting the bypass which is making it run super cold ALWAYS. So you can stop looking at cycling switch (cause you dont have one) and its not the High Pressure Sensor. It is all to do with the compressor itself.

mcdanida · 07-14-2008, 02:38 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by jhankinson

On a 2.2l system it is NOT a cycling switch. Its a pressure cutoff switch. If you lose pressure it wont allow the A/C to turn on. And yes is has a Variable Displacement compressor which means it will never cycle. If it is freezing up it is your compressor that is bad. The Variable Displacement inside the compressor is not adjusting the bypass which is making it run super cold ALWAYS. So you can stop looking at cycling switch (cause you dont have one) and its not the High Pressure Sensor. It is all to do with the compressor itself.

OK, that's making more sense. I noticed the pressure switch is a normally open switch. Applying pressure to the switch causes the contacts to close, resulting in compressor operation - as it should be - am I right?

Could this super-cold freezing problem I have be attributed to an R-134 overcharge as Yogi stated? The compressor looks almost brand-spankin'-new?

mcdanida · 07-15-2008, 01:07 PM

For anybody curious, my mechanic said I was getting flow restriction within the accumulator, and recommends replacing it. I gave him the go the evacuate system, replace accumulator, and recharge. Cost $130 .. not so bad, I can deal with that!

Does that make sense to anybody?

Yogi · 07-15-2008, 01:25 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by mcdanida

For anybody curious, my mechanic said I was getting flow restriction within the accumulator, and recommends replacing it. I gave him the go the evacuate system, replace accumulator, and recharge. Cost $130 .. not so bad, I can deal with that!

Does that make sense to anybody?

NO. A restriction in the accumulator would cause higher press. and higher temp = no freezing. But for $130, he'll prolly find the problem and fix it.

95fleet · 07-17-2008, 09:09 AM

That switch is a high pressure cut off switch. It measures the pressure in the HIGH pressure line and if the pressure gets too high it will shut down the compressor till the pressure is within spec.

I have only been able to get them from the dealer.

About the Ice. I think you may have overcharged your system. Check the labels and you should have one that tells you how many oz of 134a to put in.

mcdanida · 07-17-2008, 09:14 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by 95fleet

That switch is a high pressure cut off switch. It measures the pressure in the HIGH pressure line and if the pressure gets too high it will shut down the compressor till the pressure is within spec.

I have only been able to get them from the dealer.

About the Ice. I think you may have overcharged your system. Check the labels and you should have one that tells you how many oz of 134a to put in.

I was told I have a bad accumulator/drier. Mechanic will evacuate the system, replace accumulator, and charge the 134a.

Well, now it appears I have a GOOD "high pressure cut off switch" ... maybe I can sell on eBay?? Or in here if anybody's interested?

Sandite5 · 07-17-2008, 02:42 PM

So the A/C in my 2000 2.2 Flex is not supposed to cycle? Even at idle at a stoplight? Because it does

mcdanida · 07-18-2008, 10:07 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi

NO. A restriction in the accumulator would cause higher press. and higher temp = no freezing. But for $130, he'll prolly find the problem and fix it.

OK Yogi, here's the final outcome with mechanic.

He called this morning and indicated he had misdiagnosed the problem, and that it was the variable compressor that is the culprit. I started getting nervous about costs at this point, but he told me there was no charge for the accumulator and labor involved on the misdiagnosis. He also said the A/C works properly at its highest setting - A/C Max and fan on high. Does this make sense to you?

I opted out of the compressor fix, afterall what the hell, as long as it works on its best setting, I can deal with that, especially in Virginia where its hot & humid most of the Summer! I say the colder, the better.

I will live with this problem until a complete compressor failure, should that ever happen.

He's a good mechanic, at least honest. His apology included an oil change & lube on the house, and he only charged for the three diagnostic checks he did, the smog pump, the rattling noise, and I believe the re-charge of my A/C system. My total bill is $120.

Your opinion of this matter?

jhankinson · 07-18-2008, 10:27 AM

Yeah it will run on HIGH settings just fine. Cause even on a cycling compressor system HIGH should never cycle. It will in time fail completely dont worry. If its not working correctly one day the VD will just give up. But hey until then you will have ICE cold A/C

mcdanida · 07-18-2008, 10:35 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by jhankinson

Yeah it will run on HIGH settings just fine. Cause even on a cycling compressor system HIGH should never cycle. It will in time fail completely dont worry. If its not working correctly one day the VD will just give up. But hey until then you will have ICE cold A/C

Thanks jhank! The only complainer would be my wife when it's "tooooooo cold", but thankfully she hardly ever rides in it!

Yogi · 07-18-2008, 10:54 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by mcdanida

OK Yogi, here's the final outcome with mechanic.

He called this morning and indicated he had misdiagnosed the problem, and that it was the variable compressor that is the culprit. I started getting nervous about costs at this point, but he told me there was no charge for the accumulator and labor involved on the misdiagnosis. He also said the A/C works properly at its highest setting - A/C Max and fan on high. Does this make sense to you?

I opted out of the compressor fix, afterall what the hell, as long as it works on its best setting, I can deal with that, especially in Virginia where its hot & humid most of the Summer! I say the colder, the better.

I will live with this problem until a complete compressor failure, should that ever happen.

He's a good mechanic, at least honest. His apology included an oil change & lube on the house, and he only charged for the three diagnostic checks he did, the smog pump, the rattling noise, and I believe the re-charge of my A/C system. My total bill is $120.

Your opinion of this matter?

Sounds like you have an honest mechanic there! It makes sense that it would work well on Max, I just wonder how long the comp. will last. Now that you know the problem you can just cycle the compressor by turning the system to "Vent" whenever it freezes and you sense a loss of cooling.

Good luck!

jeffawong · 07-18-2008, 02:50 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by mcdanida

OK Yogi, here's the final outcome with mechanic.

He called this morning and indicated he had misdiagnosed the problem, and that it was the variable compressor that is the culprit. I started getting nervous about costs at this point, but he told me there was no charge for the accumulator and labor involved on the misdiagnosis. He also said the A/C works properly at its highest setting - A/C Max and fan on high. Does this make sense to you?

I opted out of the compressor fix, afterall what the hell, as long as it works on its best setting, I can deal with that, especially in Virginia where its hot & humid most of the Summer! I say the colder, the better.

I will live with this problem until a complete compressor failure, should that ever happen.

He's a good mechanic, at least honest. His apology included an oil change & lube on the house, and he only charged for the three diagnostic checks he did, the smog pump, the rattling noise, and I believe the re-charge of my A/C system. My total bill is $120.

Your opinion of this matter?

Just a little warning - depending on how the compressor fails (if and when it does) - it could disperse fragments of the compressor components throughout the system - if this happens, a flush will be required and in more severe cases condenser replacement due to contamination. If you suspect in the future that the compressor is starting to fail don't run a/c any further and bite the bullet at that point (or replace it now) good luck

Yogi · 07-18-2008, 03:48 PM

Flushing the system and replacing the orifice tube is SOP for any good shop replacing any failed compressor.

mcdanida · 07-19-2008, 09:28 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi

Flushing the system and replacing the orifice tube is SOP for any good shop replacing any failed compressor.

Yep, and by looking at the old orifice, it appears the metal dust debris is beginning to collect.

I drove home from the mechanic about 5 miles yesterday, 95F with 90% humidity. Had the air on full blast MAX, she got nice & cold! Opened hood when home and only noticed accum. was sweating, I was happy.

Now on to the P0410 SES 2ndary air inject prob.

07-04-2008, 09:37 AM	#1
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Hello all! I am stomped with an A/C problem in which my accumulator/drier is frosting up with as much as 1/8" of ice? I am fairly certain this frost continues along into my evaporator, although it is covered via blower assembly. Air is super-cool, measured at 38F, go figure. I cannot complain, but also do not wish my system to collapse on me. I do not believe my compressor is cycling, i.e., clutch engaging/disengaging like it should? Also, when A/C is running I notice belt squeek sound when I begin moving my truck, 1st, 2nd, and into 3rd gear. My pressure checks fine at freon inlet port on accumulator at 30psi. Any advice is appreciated. I'd like to start simple before replacing high $$$ items like compressor. Could it be the pressure sensor switch? Does this switch control compressor clutch cycling? Thanks for any help!
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07-04-2008, 09:58 AM	#2
S10dude workin it ! Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 11,029 Location: Sacramento,Ca. User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS is this in the max air setting ...is the temp switch at its coldest?..compressor will not cycle unless you set temp switch to warmer setting... mine blows 40deg air and frosts up..always has and i've never had a problem.. i believe your pressure should be above 32..i can't remember? Last edited by S10dude : 07-04-2008 at 10:00 AM.
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07-04-2008, 12:45 PM	#3
Yogi Registered (Ab) User Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,093 Location: League City, TX (Houston) User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Check your pressure with all windows up, A/C on Max with fan on High. Give it 5 minutes to stabilize. If the outside air temp is above 80*, put a fan in front of the radiator.
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07-04-2008, 12:50 PM	#4
poconojoe Registered User Age: 56 Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 6,403 Location: NEPA User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS What is the RH% outside, when it's icing up. It just sounds like it's condensing the moisure in the air and freezing it
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07-04-2008, 01:03 PM	#5
Yogi Registered (Ab) User Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,093 Location: League City, TX (Houston) User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by poconojoe What is the RH% outside, when it's icing up. It just sounds like it's condensing the moisure in the air and freezing it That's the problem. It should not be freezing. If the accumulator is freezing, then the evap. is freezing too, and a frozen evap. will ice over and loose airflow! The low pressure switch is supposed to prevent this.
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07-05-2008, 11:07 AM	#6
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS VERY HUMID, live in VA Beach! Hot, Humid during summer. I am going to try a low cost fix and report back to you guys: http://www.partsamerica.com/productd...rtNumber=20910 Hopefully this switch will be the problem, A/C, no matter what setting, compressor always on.
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07-05-2008, 12:11 PM	#7
Yogi Registered (Ab) User Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,093 Location: League City, TX (Houston) User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by mcdanida VERY HUMID, live in VA Beach! Hot, Humid during summer. I am going to try a low cost fix and report back to you guys: http://www.partsamerica.com/productd...rtNumber=20910 Hopefully this switch will be the problem, A/C, no matter what setting, compressor always on. I've never seen a switch like that. It may be the high pressure comp. switch. The low pressure switch looks more like this: http://www.oreillyauto.com/EW3/ProductDetail.do?id=1043553821&line=MRY&itemNumber =36674&manualReplCategoryIndex=1&vehicle=1993CHEVR OLETS10%20PICKUPV6-262%20%204.3L&bid=1215270488720&cycleCount=1072&cu rrentPage=0 Look at the side of the accumulator and see which switch you have. Last edited by Yogi : 07-05-2008 at 12:13 PM.
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07-06-2008, 12:05 PM	#8
lesterl Wire Splicin Fool :-) Age: 30 Join Date: May 2008 Posts: 4,413 Location: Harrisonville, MO User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS My mother inlaws compressor started to squeek then squeel, then it had to have a new compressor, it was a dodge tho, you say airflow across evap is good, how about condenser?
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07-06-2008, 01:42 PM	#9
Redsdime S-Dime Swag Age: 20 Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 2,940 Location: canton/mass. OH User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS dont buy a used one bc i have gone through 4 now on my fifth one but its out of a 1500 that had the 4.3 in it and its worked good it just looks a lil different im not sure if the 4.3 s and the 2.2s were the same compressors tho
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07-06-2008, 07:42 PM	#10
lesterl Wire Splicin Fool :-) Age: 30 Join Date: May 2008 Posts: 4,413 Location: Harrisonville, MO User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS You said Max AC is ok, might check and see if you have outside air filtration on your system if it is choking the airflow back you will have issues like that. Had that problem on my wifes Venture.
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07-07-2008, 08:20 AM	#11
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi I've never seen a switch like that. It may be the high pressure comp. switch. The low pressure switch looks more like this: http://www.oreillyauto.com/EW3/ProductDetail.do?id=1043553821&line=MRY&itemNumber =36674&manualReplCategoryIndex=1&vehicle=1993CHEVR OLETS10%20PICKUPV6-262%20%204.3L&bid=1215270488720&cycleCount=1072&cu rrentPage=0 Look at the side of the accumulator and see which switch you have. Dangit! I bought the wrong part, 20910, and now I'm noticing it is the 36659 switch! I can't find ANYTHING that remotely looks like P/N 20910 under my hood? Here: http://www.oreillyauto.com/EW3/gpi?id=1587535049 It's located right below my accumulator on the lower line. Yogi, what exactly does this switch do?
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07-07-2008, 11:58 AM	#12
Yogi Registered (Ab) User Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,093 Location: League City, TX (Houston) User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS As the pressure of the refrigerant in the evaporator goes lower, the temp. also goes lower. If the press. gets too low, ice will form on the evap. surface, closing off airflow through the evap, which makes the evap. colder which causes more ice.... and the cycle goes on and on. The low pressure switch senses this low press. and cuts off the compressor. When the refrigerant flow ceases, the evap. warms up, ice melts, and airflow is restored. The low pressure switch senses that pressure is back to normal and restarts the compressor. This cycling is most noticeable with the A/C on Max, cool temperatures inside the truck and blower speed on 1.
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07-08-2008, 08:14 AM	#13
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi As the pressure of the refrigerant in the evaporator goes lower, the temp. also goes lower. If the press. gets too low, ice will form on the evap. surface, closing off airflow through the evap, which makes the evap. colder which causes more ice.... and the cycle goes on and on. The low pressure switch senses this low press. and cuts off the compressor. When the refrigerant flow ceases, the evap. warms up, ice melts, and airflow is restored. The low pressure switch senses that pressure is back to normal and restarts the compressor. This cycling is most noticeable with the A/C on Max, cool temperatures inside the truck and blower speed on 1. STRIKE 2 - I found out yesterday the two clutch cycle switches are exactly alike, and do not fit my 2003 S-10 Extended Cab LS A/C system http://www.partsamerica.com/product_.../faa/20910.jpg - 20910 http://www.partsamerica.com/product_.../faa/36659.jpg - 36659 Close, but no cigar, how do I find the right part?
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07-08-2008, 09:35 AM	#14
5timedime my hoopty Age: 31 Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 1,907 Location: Belmont, just west of Charlotte, NC User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS you can always go to the dealer. it'll be more expensive, but you'll be more likely to get the right part. good luck
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07-08-2008, 12:57 PM	#15
Yogi Registered (Ab) User Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,093 Location: League City, TX (Houston) User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Go to this page and check item #3, Switch #36674, and see if that looks like it.
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07-09-2008, 11:42 AM	#17
Yogi Registered (Ab) User Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,093 Location: League City, TX (Houston) User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS I'm striking out on locating a switch like that. IDK why. I guess that you might have to go to the dealer. Sorry.
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07-09-2008, 11:46 AM	#18
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Thanks Yogi, I figured I might have to visit Satan (dealer) . Although another option is a mechanic I know that specializes in Auto A/C. He recently checked out wife's A/C, found she was slightly low on charge, charged the A/C but charged her NOTHING for the service. He's a good guy!
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07-09-2008, 11:50 AM	#19
Yogi Registered (Ab) User Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,093 Location: League City, TX (Houston) User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS He sounds like the man you ought to see!
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07-09-2008, 01:14 PM	#20
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi He sounds like the man you ought to see! Well Yogi, this might be my last post until I must pay the big bucks - your thoughts would be greatly appreciated. I went ahead and started car, turned on A/C and noticed absolutely ZERO cycling of the compressor clutch (always on). Then I pulled the plug to the pressure cycling switch, and low & behold, the compressor clutch disengages. Did that a few times, and each time clutch disengages. I'm starting to really think it's this Pressure switch, so I pulled it off my line and noticed a P/N 2264328 and confirmed that is the genuine GM part. Problem is, the dealer wants $70 (I know that's WAY overpriced) How can I find its compatable or a much cheaper price for this part?? Do you think this switch is the problem?
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07-09-2008, 01:51 PM	#21
beandip I'm Back!! Age: 21 Join Date: Sep 2006 Posts: 6,992 Location: Somewhere, OK User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS try gmpartsdirect.com for your pressure switch. gmparts wants $25 for the switch. $36.15 shipped. #25
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07-09-2008, 02:06 PM	#22
Yogi Registered (Ab) User Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,093 Location: League City, TX (Houston) User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by mcdanida Well Yogi, this might be my last post until I must pay the big bucks - your thoughts would be greatly appreciated. I went ahead and started car, turned on A/C and noticed absolutely ZERO cycling of the compressor clutch (always on). Then I pulled the plug to the pressure cycling switch, and low & behold, the compressor clutch disengages. Did that a few times, and each time clutch disengages. I'm starting to really think it's this Pressure switch, so I pulled it off my line and noticed a P/N 2264328 and confirmed that is the genuine GM part. Problem is, the dealer wants $70 (I know that's WAY overpriced) How can I find its compatable or a much cheaper price for this part?? Do you think this switch is the problem? Do you still have the pressure gauge? If so, install the gauge and turn on the a/c. Run it for a while with all of the windows up, on Max setting, fan on high. Give it 10 minutes to cool the truck down. Then, leave it on Max with windows up and put the fan on low. Accumulator should start sweating and compressor should start cycling as the pressure drops to about 28-30. I can't remember the exact pressure for R 134, but the pressure should drop and the comp. should cycle. Accumulator will frost up and then thaw out as comp. cycles. If pressure drops but comp. does not cycle, the press. switch is bad.
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07-13-2008, 06:51 PM	#23
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi Do you still have the pressure gauge? If so, install the gauge and turn on the a/c. Run it for a while with all of the windows up, on Max setting, fan on high. Give it 10 minutes to cool the truck down. Then, leave it on Max with windows up and put the fan on low. Accumulator should start sweating and compressor should start cycling as the pressure drops to about 28-30. I can't remember the exact pressure for R 134, but the pressure should drop and the comp. should cycle. Accumulator will frost up and then thaw out as comp. cycles. If pressure drops but comp. does not cycle, the press. switch is bad. Yogi, I give up, I replaced the pressure/clutch cycle switch. She still freezes up. I've handed over to my mechanic, to repair that as well as the other problems I'm having. This is not normal to me with S-10's, maybe the newer have more problems with all the bells and whistles and sensors, etc., but my two previos S-10's never had any major problems whatsoever, actually simple fixes, a clutch slave cylinder, a water pump, were the most difficult issues with the '91 I had, and it was a cinch.
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07-14-2008, 12:45 PM	#24
Yogi Registered (Ab) User Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,093 Location: League City, TX (Houston) User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS It could be slightly overfilled. May be as simple as letting a little refrigerant out to solve the problem.
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07-14-2008, 01:13 PM	#25
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by Yogi It could be slightly overfilled. May be as simple as letting a little refrigerant out to solve the problem. Would this scenario cause the clutch to not cycle? Run continuously?
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07-14-2008, 01:41 PM	#26
beandip I'm Back!! Age: 21 Join Date: Sep 2006 Posts: 6,992 Location: Somewhere, OK User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS wait... i just noticed from re-reading the tread.... the A/C compressor cycles??? like turns on and off? mine doesnt it just runs all the time and the A/C is cold (40ºF), or am i just reading it wrong? Last edited by beandip : 07-14-2008 at 01:51 PM.
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07-14-2008, 01:51 PM	#27
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by beandip wait... i just noticed from re-reading the tread.... the A/C compressor cycles??? like turns on and off? mine doesnt it just runs all the time and the A/C is cold (40ºF) and the accumulator doesnt freeze. Well beandip, consider yourself lucky. Mine doesn't cycle either, and YES, I also have some cold-ass air (39F), but unfortunately my accum. & coil freezes almost with 1/8" or more ice!
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07-14-2008, 01:59 PM	#28
beandip I'm Back!! Age: 21 Join Date: Sep 2006 Posts: 6,992 Location: Somewhere, OK User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS mine just has condensation. found some info from another thread and answered my own question. Quote: only the 4.3 a/c systems are designed to cycle the compressor on and off. The 2.2 allegedly has a variable stroke compressor that changes up its stroke to stay with whatever set operating parameters. As I stated before when it's working it blows ice cold, however sitting still while idling it will start cycling the compressor on and off seems if the 2.2L A/C system is cycling then something is wrong. and also the following.. Quote: Freezing can also occur from incomplete evacuation of the system as the residual water will freeze. I hope you used a vacuum pump (min 1.2-1.5 cfm) and longer the better some say min 30 minutes but longer the better as it will not hurt. i evacuated for 120 min. Last edited by beandip : 07-14-2008 at 02:08 PM.
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07-14-2008, 02:14 PM	#29
Yogi Registered (Ab) User Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,093 Location: League City, TX (Houston) User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by mcdanida Would this scenario cause the clutch to not cycle? Run continuously? Yes. Beandip: They're talking about freezing inside the refrigerant piping in that quote that you listed. Incomplete evacuation causes the residual moisture inside the system to freeze. When the compressor does not cycle, and there is adequate refrigerant, freezing will occur on the outside of the evaporator and the accumulator/dryer. The low pressure switch is supposed to cycle the compressor to prevent this freezing because it can clog the evaporator, and the air will not get cooled. Last edited by Yogi : 07-14-2008 at 02:22 PM.
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07-14-2008, 02:21 PM	#30
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by beandip mine just has condensation. found some info from another thread and answered my own question. seems if the 2.2L A/C system is cycling then something is wrong. and also the following.. GREAT! Now I'm finding my clutch IS SUPPOSED to run constantly? What the hell is the purpose of the clutch/pressure cycling switch? What the hell, it's in the mechanic's hands now.
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07-14-2008, 02:23 PM	#31
beandip I'm Back!! Age: 21 Join Date: Sep 2006 Posts: 6,992 Location: Somewhere, OK User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS well, im a noob at A/C systems but good at finding info. maybe on the 2.2 its just a pressure switch but labeled as a pressure cycling switch either way its suppose to prevent the system from running on low pressure. i will post up the links to the threads i found with that info. :EDIT: http://www.s10forum.com/forum/f105/a-c-question-259953/ http://www.s10forum.com/forum/f107/a...s-here-360547/ http://www.s10forum.com/forum/f105/a...re-out-196266/ Last edited by beandip : 07-14-2008 at 02:26 PM.
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07-14-2008, 02:30 PM	#32
jhankinson Registered User Age: 29 Join Date: Feb 2006 Posts: 358 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS On a 2.2l system it is NOT a cycling switch. Its a pressure cutoff switch. If you lose pressure it wont allow the A/C to turn on. And yes is has a Variable Displacement compressor which means it will never cycle. If it is freezing up it is your compressor that is bad. The Variable Displacement inside the compressor is not adjusting the bypass which is making it run super cold ALWAYS. So you can stop looking at cycling switch (cause you dont have one) and its not the High Pressure Sensor. It is all to do with the compressor itself.
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07-14-2008, 02:38 PM	#33
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by jhankinson On a 2.2l system it is NOT a cycling switch. Its a pressure cutoff switch. If you lose pressure it wont allow the A/C to turn on. And yes is has a Variable Displacement compressor which means it will never cycle. If it is freezing up it is your compressor that is bad. The Variable Displacement inside the compressor is not adjusting the bypass which is making it run super cold ALWAYS. So you can stop looking at cycling switch (cause you dont have one) and its not the High Pressure Sensor. It is all to do with the compressor itself. OK, that's making more sense. I noticed the pressure switch is a normally open switch. Applying pressure to the switch causes the contacts to close, resulting in compressor operation - as it should be - am I right? Could this super-cold freezing problem I have be attributed to an R-134 overcharge as Yogi stated? The compressor looks almost brand-spankin'-new?
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07-15-2008, 01:07 PM	#34
mcdanida 2003 Chevy S-10 LS Owner Age: 41 Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 53 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS For anybody curious, my mechanic said I was getting flow restriction within the accumulator, and recommends replacing it. I gave him the go the evacuate system, replace accumulator, and recharge. Cost $130 .. not so bad, I can deal with that! Does that make sense to anybody?
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07-15-2008, 01:25 PM	#35
Yogi Registered (Ab) User Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 4,093 Location: League City, TX (Houston) User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS Quote: Originally Posted by mcdanida For anybody curious, my mechanic said I was getting flow restriction within the accumulator, and recommends replacing it. I gave him the go the evacuate system, replace accumulator, and recharge. Cost $130 .. not so bad, I can deal with that! Does that make sense to anybody? NO. A restriction in the accumulator would cause higher press. and higher temp = no freezing. But for $130, he'll prolly find the problem and fix it.
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07-17-2008, 09:09 AM	#36
95fleet 1 slo S Age: 27 Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 73 Location: Lake of the Ozarks, MO User is: OffLine	Re: Air Conditioning Problem 2003 S-10 LS That switch is a high pressure cut off switch. It measures the pressure in the HIGH pressure line and if the pressure gets too high it will shut down the compressor till the pressure is within spec. I have only been able to get them from the dealer. About the Ice. I think you may have overcharged your system. Check the labels and you should have one that tells you how many oz of 134a to put in.
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