Taking an ohmmeter and checking the clutch coil resistance will quickly tell you the resistance. The most common cause of compressor clutch circuit fuses blowing is a compressor clutch coil having a resistance value which is too low. If the wires are connected wrong and the clutch coil uses a diode, diode damage will result. CAUTION: Polarity must be observed when doing this test. When power is removed, it should immediately disengage. As soon as power is applied, the clutch should engage. If using test wires, an in-line fuse holder with a 10-amp fuse should be utilized for protection and the test wires should be 16 gauge or larger. This can be done utilizing a battery and test wires or a power probe.

This can be done by simply putting power and ground directly to the clutch coil. Then checking the resistance of the clutch coil.īench testing the clutch for function is easily accomplished.Bench testing the clutch to make sure it will function.(Usually due to clutch coil resistance being too low.)Īs a result, it is advisable to do some other tests while you have the compressor on the bench checking the clutch air gap. The A/C compressor clutch circuit blowing fuses. (Usually due to an “open” clutch coil.)Ģ. There are two other “right out of the box” clutch issues that are encountered with some regularity on tech line calls. If detected and corrected before compressor installation, a lot of time can be saved. These issues of course can cause problems with clutch operation. This is because of the possibility of a clutch air gap getting knocked out of adjustment due to rough handling or it being gapped incorrectly at the factory. Checking the clutch air gap before installing a compressor is an important step in compressor installation.

Ac compressor clutch