i have noticed that my truck is really a slug when the ac i on .;.. it almost sounds like it is strugling.(05 QC 2500 4x4 hemi) i mean my girlfriends honda civic EX looses less power with the ac on then my truck....... anyone else have this problem......

 

I have the same truck only an '04.
I notice nothing. I can't even tell when the A/C is on except for the fact of cool air comming out of the vents.

 

<<question for all HEMI owners w/ A/C>>

Are there HEMIs without A/Cs?

I don't notice much difference. A/C sucks some HP, but it shouldn't be too noticable. If it is as extreme as you say, you may want to have it looked at by someone who knows what to look at.

 

I've noticed it robbing power, but there is pleanty to spare. I've owned vehicles where you had to turn the AC off to pass someone.

 

I don't even notice it's on to be honest. Now in my Intrepid, that's another story.

 

I notice a little difference, but I've a considerably lighter weight truck than you. Hence, your difference is probably somewhat greater/more noticeable. And, I suspect there are personal differences in ones sensitivity to this change.

The only way to tell if your truck is abnormal is drive another like yours and compare. Surely, a dealer has one you could drive.

All the best.

 

You should notice a slight difference in the power, but if it is as dramatic as it sounds, You are either losing a compressor, or it has been possibly overcharged with refrigerant--it increases the head pressure, which in turn increases the overall hp to run it. This sounds like something the dealer should take care of under warranty. I have the same setup in mine and there is almost no detectable power loss. The only real difference I've seen so far is the mpg drops about 1/2 mpg avg. One other possible cause for the dragging is air mixed in with the r-134a charge. This too can also substantially increase the pressure. What all this means long term is you will lose the compressor prematurely, and most likely at your expense down the road.

Hope this helps--Ya, I'm an HVAC mechanic by trade--for 20+ years

 

same as above, no noticable power loss for me with the a/c on...

 

thanks guys

 

ive not noticed any power loss, just that the A/C doesnt seem that cold, anyone else w/ that small issue?