AC Cuts out after about 15 minutes....

Post by **Eddystone** » 14 Jun 2020, 14:55

I have read a number of AC threads over the years, and I suspect my compressor clutch needs to be adjust (or maybe needs to have some pieces of zip tie inserted). I haven't yet had an opportunity to stop and check it when it starts blowing uncooled. When first started, the system gets nice and cold, then you realize after about 15 minutes that uncooled air is coming out of the vents.

Ideas? This is a 1999 S70t5 with the automatic temperature control module.

Post by **abscate** » 14 Jun 2020, 15:47

It’s a classic description of the excess clutch gap problem, which you can confirm with feeler gauges.

It is possible to drop the compressor and reshuffle the clutch without having to evacuate and recharge the AC but bread clips or zip ties is a much faster and effective solution.

Post by **misha** » 14 Jun 2020, 15:53

Abscate....
How do you measure clutch gap...when clutch is engaged or at rest(disengaged)?
I know that it should be around 0.3-0.5mm max,but i'm not clear on this.

Post by **erikv11** » 14 Jun 2020, 16:17

Measure AC clutch gap at rest, car off. Just reach down there.

Post by **misha** » 14 Jun 2020, 16:24

erikv11 wrote: ↑14 Jun 2020, 16:17 Measure AC clutch gap at rest, car off. Just reach down there.

So....at rest...when clutch is disengaged,it should be within spec(0.3-0.5mm).

What is a maximum allowable clutch gap,before problems begin?
Never had a problem with ac compressor,but want to be ready for it if needed.

Post by **erikv11** » 14 Jun 2020, 17:19

My recollection from forum posts is they can get up to 0.7 or so without issue. Check yours and post it up! Since it is working. Or wade through a search

. Seriously it's easy to test if you have a feeler gauge.

I'll try to check the gap on my V70 and post it up.

Post by **Eddystone** » 14 Jun 2020, 17:43

There's a photo credited to erikv11 for this AC clutch fix showing a part number 02AUG2012. Is this a Volvo number or something aftermarket?

I have been out to the car sticking my head in there and taking photos, and now I have three or four new projects to do on my perfectly running (except for the AC) car. Power steering hose. Maybe a serpentine belt. Heck, maybe it's time for the timing belt. Idler. Tensioner. Water pump. Camshaft lock, Camshaft seals. Camshaft. Crankshaft. Front subframe. It never stops...

I may just drive north and park it near Albany, but they're real snooty about taking free cars with auto boxes up there.

Post by **erikv11** » 14 Jun 2020, 19:19

Eddystone wrote: ↑14 Jun 2020, 17:43 There's a photo credited to erikv11 for this AC clutch fix showing a part number 02AUG2012. Is this a Volvo number or something aftermarket? ...

That "part" is a bread clip. The expiration date for the loaf of bread was Aug 12, 2012.

For reducing the clutch gap, zip ties are the much better way to go, preferred over bread clips.

Post by **abscate** » 14 Jun 2020, 19:27

Ha! Probably have garage open for another month at least with Covid, but you are always welcome

Four hour drive from Philly, yo.

If you do use bread clips , don’t use wHEAT for an AC application, it won’t slice it, you can toast your compressor.

Post by **MoVolvos** » 14 Jun 2020, 21:10

misha wrote: ↑14 Jun 2020, 15:53 Abscate....
How do you measure clutch gap...when clutch is engaged or at rest(disengaged)?
I know that it should be around 0.3-0.5mm max,but i'm not clear on this.

Hope to get to this on our C30. Already one summer too many.

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