2001 chevy 3500 pickup cant keep the compressor on

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around troubleshooting an issue with the air conditioning (A/C) compressor in a 2001 Chevy 3500 pickup. Participants explore potential electrical and mechanical failures that could prevent the compressor from operating correctly, including wiring issues, sensor malfunctions, and component checks.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant reports that the A/C compressor does not activate despite replacing components and checking the fuse, suggesting a need for a proper diagnosis.
  • Another participant questions the appropriateness of seeking help in a mechanical engineering forum, suggesting a dedicated Chevy truck forum may be more suitable.
  • It is proposed that a shorted wire might be causing the fuse to blow, with a suggestion to bypass the defective circuit if locating the faulty wire proves difficult.
  • A question is raised about whether there is 12v at the compressor when the A/C is on, and if not, the pressure switch should be examined, assuming the refrigerant level is adequate.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of testing the A/C clutch relay before considering a bypass, mentioning that issues could also stem from the dashboard A/C switch or damaged wiring.
  • One participant introduces the idea that a compromised Vref line supplying multiple sensors could affect the climate control system, suggesting that any sensor issue might impact the A/C operation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views on the potential causes of the A/C compressor issue, with no consensus reached on the specific solution or diagnosis.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the condition of electrical components, the adequacy of refrigerant levels, and the integrity of the wiring harness. The discussion does not clarify the exact nature of the electrical issues or the specific sensors involved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals experiencing similar A/C compressor issues in vehicles, particularly those with knowledge of automotive electrical systems and troubleshooting techniques.

wlr483
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i have a 2001 chevy 3500 pickup i can't get the a/c compressor to kick on i replace everything and checked fuse i can jump it and it wil works, but i need it done right does anyone know what it might be
 
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Why would you ask the question in a mechanical engineering forum? Go ask the question to people who are familiar with your specific truck, like a Chevy trucks forum!
 
If I understand you correctly - and if you made sure every electrical components are OK -, it sounds like you have a shorted wire that blows up your fuse.

If that is the case - and with the spaghetti-like wiring harnesses of today making it difficult to find the faulty wire - usually the easiest solution is to bypass the defective circuit by disconnecting it and putting another wire.
 
Is there 12v at the compressor with ac on ? If not , assuming there is the proper level of 134a , I would look at the pressure switch
 
Jack Action has a good point ,,,but before by pass, did you test the A/C clutch relay? This is a 5 terminal switch located in the power control module...if it checks out ok, it is likely in the dash board AC switch...or you burnt a wire in the miles of wiring...ugggg
 
Anything else wrong with the car.

I believe the truck mentioned has a Vref line that supplies multiple sensors.

These sensors include the climate control system and are used to determine charge pressure, temperature, and air door position.

If any sensor on that line is compromised, it can affect anyone of the systems that use a sensor on that line.
 

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