Any AC experts in this group? Took my 2000 XJ to a shop to have the 134A AC system checked out. My system passed their leak test so they recharged it and it works but only for about 10 minutes. The tech told me the compressor was bad. A $700 fix if they were to do it.
Is it normal for a compressor to work but then stop once the jeep heats up? Could there be something else that is causing the compressor to stop running?

 

You have to be more descriptive than "stops working".
Does the clutch stay engaged but the compressor stops compressing refrigerant?

 

The clutch stops spinning. It engages when the engine is cold but stops when the engine reaches temp. Ive taken the clutch off and cleaned it the best I could and made sure it clutch moved freely. I haven't jumped the relay to make sure the magnetic system works because I cant remember which points to jump together.

 

Does the electric fan kick in and out in sequence with the compressor clutch?

 

It does not. Ive heard the fan running while in traffic but I cant get it to run while idling in my drive way. Is there a sensor I should be looking for or a way to jump the fan?

 

Both the fan and a clutch are controlled by relays in the PDC.
T he relays are triggered by the vehicles computer.

They all need to run in concert.

 

I'd look at the high and low pressure switches too.

 

I got my Jeep back from the mechanic. They could get the compressor to run, but only for a few minutes. I was able to find a low pressure switch at the local parts store but had to special order the high pressure switch. When I swapped out the low switch, the cooling fan never turned on. Again, the fan will turn on when the engine is super hot so I know the fan works.

 

I'd rather you spend your money on diagnostic stuff than loading the parts cannon.
A Harbor Freight A/C manifold and gages and a multimeter will tell you if the pressure switches are working.

 

I'd start by using a meter to check the high and low pressure switches and the clutch solenoid when it's refusing to run. Apply 12-volts directly to the clutch wire and see if it runs..

 

Also check the air gap at the clutch. When hot, the higher resistance reduces the magnetic force so the clutch can't "jump" the larger gap.