A/C Question

[CXS]

I didn't find anything when I searched. My A/C works okay except when stopped for a bit then it blows warm. When I move it's good. I brought it in today and was told that "the compressor may be failing" which is pretty vague. It doesn't make any noise or show any external signs of a problem.

I've read about the DIY and will avoid doing damage myself but it seems like it's in need of a charge. Any help appreciated.

 

[djkurious]

I didn't find anything when I searched. My A/C works okay except when stopped for a bit then it blows warm. When I move it's good. I brought it in today and was told that "the compressor may be failing" which is pretty vague. It doesn't make any noise or show any external signs of a problem.

I've read about the DIY and will avoid doing damage myself but it seems like it's in need of a charge. Any help appreciated.

May need to be recharged. I would plug up gauges, add dye and a can or two judging off the pressure(s).

 

[46runner]

I didn't find anything when I searched. My A/C works okay except when stopped for a bit then it blows warm. When I move it's good. I brought it in today and was told that "the compressor may be failing" which is pretty vague. It doesn't make any noise or show any external signs of a problem.

I've read about the DIY and will avoid doing damage myself but it seems like it's in need of a charge. Any help appreciated.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/222053-diy-air-conditioning-ac-recharge.html

 

[Phils4th]

Does the cooling fan operate properly when stopped?

Get a hi/lol pressure check on the a/c system when the problem is occurring and when it isn't. did the shop do that?

Did this problem happen progressively or all of the sudden??

Could be the pressure cutout switch that is shutting down the compressor if the pressure is too high.

The compressor is running when you're stopped?

You could attempt to hotwire the compressor to override the pressure switch to troubleshoot.

 

[CXS]

Thanks guys, It's come on slowly and the tech said "the compressor may be failing. I'll either do it myself or have it done and report back. I think it just needs a charge, 217k miles w/o ever doing anything makes me think this.

All components seem to be fine. Time will tell.

 

[V8Man]

You need to check the condenser is clean. I have seen them packed with bugs and grass. Also check the space between the radiator and condenser. This area gets all kind of stuff packed in there.
A quick check of you’re a/c status is to look at the sight glass on the high pressure line. It’s on the right side in front of the condenser. We shouldn’t see any bubbles, it should be clear when you’re a/c is running.

 

[Phils4th]

You need to check the condenser is clean. I have seen them packed with bugs and grass. Also check the space between the radiator and condenser. This area gets all kind of stuff packed in there.
A quick check of you’re a/c status is to look at the sight glass on the high pressure line. It’s one the right side in front of the condenser. We shouldn’t see any bubbles, it should be clear when you’re a/c is running.

I agree, this is a good call to make sure the condenser is clean. Low airflow through it from the fan will reduce the efficiency. Not to mention we are high altitude where we have less (1/5th less) air density and practically zero humidity.