Hey everyone i got a 2001 ram 1500 and I want to get my A/C working and im just wondering where to start? How do I know if the clutch is turning on the pump and if so what kind of A/C refills should I buy?

 

The clutch is easy to inspect. When disengaged the OD spins while the ID stays stationary. Note even when everything is working properly the clutch is not always locked but rather it cycles as needed -- typically with an audible click.

However even if the clutch does not engage it does not necesarrily mean the clutch itself is faulty.

This is not exactly on target but starting around 25:00 Eric O does some troubleshooting on a '00. Actually a good vid to watch just to learn a whole lotta things about your 2nd Gen

 

First thing, with the engine running, turn the system on. The compressor pulley will free wheel until it's turned on and then the center part (the clutch) will engage and start turning. If nothing happens, with a piece of thin wire, you can bypass the safety switch, temporarily, by jumpering the connector. It's on the side of the line near the receiver/dryer. That a tall can looking thing by the firewall on the passenger side of the engine. If the compressor kicks in when you do that, the pressure is low. Take the jumper wire out and plug the connector back onto it.

You have R134 refrigerant. There are charge kits with a gauge you can get. These hook to the low side port on the metal lines. On your truckit is near the passenger side headlight. The connector will ONLY connect to the low side port. Follow the instructions on the can. Be sure not to over pressurize the system. If it works for a while then quits, you have a leak somewhere.

 

Mine connected right by the dryer to refill it

 

I checked for power at the clutch by unplugging the plug and there was no power there so then I checked the a/c relay and the fuse and there was no power in eather of thoes spots, I checked with a voltage meter and the truck not running but ignition on, so most likely it is the switch then or is there any other hidden places to check?

 

Compressor relay should have 12 volts at pin 30, regardless of key position. If you don't have power there, check fuse J in the power distribution center. (under the hood.) Its a 10 amp fuse according to the service manual.

Fuse 11 in the fuse block in the side of the dash is relay control-side power. (to pin 86 in the compressor clutch relay socket.) PCM controls ground side. I suspect power on this one is switched thru the ignition.