AC keeps cycling even when off
 

I have a 1998 Cherokee Sport (4L engine).

I noticed a weird behavior of the AC system: if the AC command is off the compressor clutch keeps cycling: 5 sec on and 10 sec off approx. I can hear the load on the engine when it kicks in and also I can see the electric fan kicking in too.

I unplugged the cycling switch (the one on top of the condenser) and the cycling stops. Also the electric fan does not kick in anymore.

I changed the cycling switch to a new one, but problem stays there.

When the AC is on it runs fine.

Any suggestion what to look for?

Thanks

Are u saying when the dash selector is all the way to the left position that the a/c compressor is still engaged? If so, sounds like a bad dash switch maybe.

Sounds like a bad switch to me also.

Ok, I should clarify better.

When the switch is on 0 (full left position) the AC does not cycle.
When the switch is on the Blue signs, the AC is on (compressor stays engaged)

When the switch is on the white symbols (regular air, not conditioned) the events that I previously described occur: the AC compressor starts cycling with 5-10 secs periods. The air in the cab is slightly cooler than normal.
If I unplug the cycling switch this stops.

In my jeep I do not have the switch that you show next to the 12V power plug. Is that related to AC?

Is this only after you cycle through the switch to get to one of the right hand settings? Does it happen if you start the engine while the switch is in one of the right settings? A lot of manufacturers set their switches up so that the AC systems is cycled on when you turn the selectors to a certain position. They do this to keep the pump from freezing up due to lack of use. The pump will continue to cycle, regardless of the current switch setting, until the engine is shut off. My old Nissan did it when I turned to defrost (until I relocated the switch). I seem to remember my last Chrysler doing it too.

Ok, I get this. First off, that switch next to the power plug has nothing to do with your A/C. When you turn your middle switch towards the right and stop it on the white pictures of the window, that is defrost. The A/C works during the defrost cycle even in winter! So the compressor will cycle. That's how defrost works. So with this been said, there is nothing wrong with your system. Everything is function properly. If you replaced a switch I hoped you saved it...

The 2 positions to the right are defrost IF the temp selector is positioned in the red......and defog IF the temp selector is positioned in the blue.

x2. If you place your switch in those positions you will have the A/C compressor kicking on and off even in the winter.

The compressor is not only used for cooling the air. It also removes moisture from the air. Ever tried to defog a window with most air? Doesn't work too well.