Compressors power air conditioning systems, which circulate cool air in vehicles. Whether purchasing a new or remanufactured unit, the general specifications remain the same and they outline the basic industry provisions that must be met regardless of vehicle type. Air conditioner compressors consist of the compressor and compressor clutch. However, when replacing a defective compressor, most specifications require cleaning or replacement of internal parts that may have sustained damage during the "break up" of the compressor. Broken components may taint other elements of the air conditioning system.
AC Compressor
Typically, buyers do not become involved with compressor performance specifications, such as discharge pressure, suction temperature, or compressor speed. For example, the typical suction temperature ranges from -15 to 100 degrees and compressor speed stipulates 600 to 12,000 revolutions per minute. Purchasers only have to give the automotive-parts salesperson the vehicle make, model and year to receive the correct compressor for their automobile.
Compressor Clutch
The compressor clutch comprises an electromagnetic gear that locks in place on the compressor and makes it function. The clutch has two performance specifications: clutch cycling and clutch volts. Clutch cycling operates the on/off switch that signals the clutch to engage the compressor. The clutch volt, determines the clutch's capacity for receiving voltage from the vehicle's battery.
Condenser
Refrigerant flows from the compressor to the condenser. The condenser, which resembles a radiator, cools the refrigerant before it goes into the system to absorb hot air from the automobile's interior. The installation components of most compressor specifications require mechanics to flush out the oil and debris in the condenser. The design features of high efficiency condensers installed on later model vehicles make cleaning more difficult and may require replacement.
Refrigerant Oil
Refrigerant oil level and oil quality affect the performance and durability of compressors. The Discount Compressor website recommends PAG (Polyalkylene Glycol) oil, or "Double end capped" oil. The oil comes in viscosity ratings of 46, 100 or 150. Most compressor manufacturers put oil in the units, but the oil's age and quality present unknown factors. Consult the instruction manual to find out the recommended oil and where to put the lubricant. Some specifications call for 50 percent of the lubricant in the compressor and the remainder in the air conditioner's drier/filter.
Drier
Most compressor guidelines call for changing the air conditioner drier, which removes debris and moisture from the system. Keeping moisture out of the system prolongs the viscosity level of the oil and promotes a longer life for the compressor.
