Hi, I have a 2000 Durango 4.7L SLT. The A/C system has a slow leak in it, and I believe the A/C compressor stays on constantly. The leak will be fixed this spring when it gets warmer.

My main question is: When you turn the heat on and put the selector switch in the non-A/C positions (like floor or window etc...) does it still activate the A/C compressor? And should I endure that there is refrigerant in the A/C lines during the colder winter months?

The A/C compressor staying on all the time may be due to the A/C relay switch needing replacing.

Thanks-

 

The compressor does activate when in the defrost position, IIRC it does not come on in other non a/c positions, but then again i could be wrong, pretty sure mine turns off when not in the a/c or defrost position.

 

the A/C compressor is on during a few conditions (as follows)

1), the a/c switch is on, or the selector is in an A/C indicated position (depending on which dash setup you have)
2) the selectors are set on defrost

otherwise it should be off, it should be relay controlled so remove the relay and it will shut off and stay off.

 

Also remember, on your D the 3rd position on the fan switch, the first WITHOUT the snowflake, **IS** still in AC mode. No snowflake there but tht is an AC setting.

With that pointed out, +3 above. If you are in any of the 3 AC modes or any of the defrost modes, the AC will either run or cycle the compressor.

IndyDurango

 

When the system senses low pressure it should prevent the compressor from kicking on at all. If your compressor clutch is engaged all the time then you may have a mechanical issue with the clutch / bearing preventing it from disengaging. Make sure it gets fixed ASAP, even if you put a new compressor / clutch in and don't presseurize the system as it will leave you stranded if the clutch lets go. (no clutch means no water pump, power steering, alternator)

Bob

 

If the compressor clutch goes, can't you just bypass the compressor pulley to continue running with no AC compressor?

 

Nope, not on the 4.7 engine. Been there, done that.... twice!!!

Bob

 

ahh 4.7 lol...stupid little bugger engines!

 

Yeah, they're a little bit "special". Still, gotta love a tiny motor that gives decent mileage and HP.

 

So long as just keeping the compressor clutch from engaging will work, I'd do that. ON most engines with the flat belts like these have, the only way to bypass the A/C would be a dummy pulley, not like the older V belt setups that you just needed a shorter belt for.

The 4.7 isn't wimpy though, still shoves me into the seat pretty well.