97blueXJ

Can't seem to figure out why the A/c isn't working. If I pull the A/c clutch relay and replace it, the compressor will kick in for all of one full spin but that's all I can get unless I jump the contacts the relay plugs into. When I jump them it is fully functional and cold as hell. But with the relay in place it won't work unless I sit under the hood pulling and replacing the relay .Any suggestions???

fb97xj1

Try another relay. They can wear out over time, just like any other electrical component.

97blueXJ

Just tried a new one 15 minutes ago.. No change

4.3L XJ

It is not charged correctly. If you jump the low pressure safety switch, it will stay on

97blueXJ

All I know is my mechanic hooked his gauges to it after changing the head. He said it was charged. Where is this switch at? And how do I correct the charge?

4.3L XJ

The switch is on the accumulator mounted on the frame rail

97blueXJ

Jumpered the connector clutch engaged . Saw on another thread that there's a Schrader valve under it. Pulled the switch, air started hissing from Schrader valve. Not cold as if it were Freon just air. New accumulator?

4.3L XJ

When operating, the accumulator will be warm, in the 120° range. What will be cold is the line from the firewall to the compressor

Rambler65

Check pressures with the engine running and AC on. If the low side drops below about 20 psi the low-pressure switch will cut off the compressor. (System undercharged.)

97blueXJ

If the Schrader valve is leaking on the accumulator, does it need to be replaced?

We already checked to ensure it was fully charged. It might not be now that the accumulator is leaking though

4.3L XJ

Yes

Rambler65

Going by the book, the acculator/drier is supposed to be changed any time the AC system is opened up to atmosphere. That's not usually done though as long as it's not too old and exposure not too long, but if yours is real old and grungy probably a good idea to change it.