OT-1995 Silverado air conditioning system

Air conditioner in my 1995 Silverado stopped blowing cold air. Noticed that the air compressor was cycling off and on very quickly (2-3 seconds on/off). So got a fill kit with guage. Followed instructions. Gauge read <10psi and compress still NOT running although engine was on. So went to fill. Got probably less than 1/8 of can in and needle shot into red. Removed fill kit. Compressor started to turn but again cycling on/off quickly. Put gauge back on and now reads 40 psi but compressor cycles quickly and still NO cold air.

What are your thoughts??? I'm starting to think more of a sensor/electtrical issue.

THANKS in advance for your help and input!!

Inside the high pressure line (the small line), where the condenser connects, lives the orifice tube. It is inside the pipe, can generally be accessed by removing the right front parking lamp.

While the system is empty, open that connection, reach inside the pipe and gently pull the orifice tube assembly out by grabbing the little flat tab with a pair of needle nosed pliers. Make sure the screen is not plugged with mud, metal, etc.

Your main problem is that you are low/empty on freon and I wouldn't put a whole lot of store in that little gauge on your fill hose.

However, you want to make sure that the freon can move within the system and the orifice tube screen is where they generally will plug.

If you had an electrical/sensor problem, the compressor wouldn't even cycle.

Allan

Got a better gauge from my buddy. Took the followiing readings.

Engine/compressor off - Low side 50 psi/high side 50 psi

Engine on/compressor on (cycling on and off every 2-3 seconds)...low side 50 psi, high side 75 psi

According to the instructions with the gauge these reading at about 60 degree F ambient temp are Low side is HIGH pressure...High side is LOW PRESSURE..which they say is a faulty reed in the compressor.

Does this make sense???? Is this an "easy fix" or means dealer and big $$$$$$$$.

Thanks for you input.

Go ahead and put a can or two into the system. When It's full, it will be very uncomfortable to hold your hand on the receiver/dryer and that compressor will stop cycling every few seconds. It will still cycle, just not as often.

This time of year and when full, the low side should then drop down to "around" 40 lbs, the high side will run about 150 lbs if the condenser is getting enough cool air.

With all the vents closed except the center one and with the fan on low speed, you should expect a tempreature reading of right at 42 degrees.

No, this is not a big deal. Just low on the juice from the sound of your readings.

Allan

Thanks!! Will give it a try this weekend and let you know how I make out!

Appreciate your help!