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Topic: Cab A/C Problem That Killed Other Things (Read 3 times) previous topic - next topic
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Cab A/C Problem That Killed Other Things
Yahoo Message Number: 142086
I had an unfortunate experience with the Ford cab A/C in my 2005 MB which I will relate in hopes that others might not experience same.
 On way home to CA from east coast.  About noon on Monday noticed that cab A/C was not working.  I checked fuse and compressor relay; both were OK.  Decided that the magnetics of A/C compressor clutch had failed and that I would get it fixed when I got home in a couple of days. Drove about 400 miles Tuesday with no problems or A/C.
 Wednesday afternoon after a stop for gas, the engine would not turn over.  Acted like a dead battery.  Road service tried to jump start me but could not get the engine turn over.  Got towed to Ford dealer.
 Ford mechanic discovered that the A/C compressor clutch failed and then the compressor "locked up" causing the serpentine belt to slip.  Under these circumstances the starter could not deliver enough torque to spin the engine.
 As a result of trying to jump start things, the starter drew so much current that it got hot and failed. On the test stand it would not spin freely or pass a "locked rotor" test.
 Because the serpentine belt was slipping, the alternator did not charge the battery enough and the excessive current draw while trying to start without being jumped damaged the battery.  It would no longer pass a charge or load tests.
 One day later I had a new A/C compressor, starter and battery plus a much lighter wallet.
 I was able to go out on the shop floor while the Ford technician worked on things.  He told me that the A/C compressor that Ford used typically fails in this manner; clutch first then clutch and compressor locking so that nothing spins  I guess that the moral of this story is that if your cab A/C quits, get it fixed immediately without driving too far.

Doug
Re: Cab A/C Problem That Killed Other Things
Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 142095
I guess that the moral of this story is that if your cab A/C quits, get it fixed immediately without driving too far.

Doug
 Thanks, Doug, hopefully that advice will stick to the old gray matter if we experience a loss of A/C - We have an '06.

Barry "O"  06MB - Ruby Red
2006 27' MidBath
Re: Cab A/C Problem That Killed Other Things
Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 142098
wrote: I had an unfortunate experience with the Ford cab A/C in my 2005 MB which I will relate in hopes that others might not experience same.
--- Thanks for that information, Doug. I wasn't aware that a failed cab AC compressor could create a "domino" effect! Did the "slipping" cause any glazing on the serpentine belt?

Joan
2003 TK has a new home
Re: Cab A/C Problem That Killed Other Things
Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 142113
The serpentine belt got "polished" a little but not damaged and did not stretch to any degree.  I discussed it with the Ford technician and asked him about replacing it.  He said to not waste my money.  "These things are overly thick and tougher than nails."  He cleaned the belt with some fluid (MEK? alcohol?) which removed a few black marks and dulled the shine.  He let me carefully inspect the belt before he reinstalled it and I didn't find any nicks, cuts, etc.  However, I am watching it carefully. (And I carry a spare.)
 I was very fortunate in that the Ford service manager let me stay in the shop with my rig while the work was being done.  I am sure that this is against their insurance company's rules.  Interestingly, the service writers desks (5) are on the shop floor along one end  right next to the work bays.

When they replace the A/C compressor they also have to replace the accumulator/filter can to make the compressor warranty valid.
 After getting everything replaced and running, the tech tried to start the engine.  On the first two tries nothing happened.  I then spent an hour helping the tech diagnose the problem;  an intermittent ignition switch.
The tech replaced the switch and everything was fine.  I had to help him get access to the switch as I have a lot of extra electrical wiring under the dash.  When he removed the old switch he could see fluid in it.  He handed the switch to me and the fluid ran out.  Felt and looked a lot like WD-40.
I have never lubricated anything under the dash and never use WD-40 for lubrication purposes.  I brought the switch home with me and intend to drill out the rivets and open it up to see what is going on inside.
 One thing that really surprised me was the amount of stuff that must be removed before you can get access to the A/C compressor, alternator, etc.  I can now see why maintenance costs for a van are greater than for an equivalent pickup truck.

Doug

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