RAM SRT-10 Pickup V10-505 8.3L (2004)
Compressor Clutch Coil: Description and Operation
Compressor Clutch - Typical
The compressor dutch assembly consists of a stationary electromagnetic coil, a pulley bearing and pulley assembly, and a clutch plate. The
electromagnetic coil and the pulley bearing and pulley assembly are each retained on the nose of the compressor front housing with snap rings. The
clutch plate is keyed to the compressor shaft and secured with a nut. These components provide the means to engage and disengage the compressor from
the engine serpentine accessory drive belt.
The A/C compressor clutch provides the means to engage and disengage the A/C compressor from the engine serpentine accessory drive belt. When the
clutch coil is energized, it magnetically draws the clutch into contact with the pulley and drives the compressor shaft. When the coil is not energized, the
pulley freewheels on the pulley bearing, which is part of the pulley assembly. The compressor clutch and coil are the only serviced parts on the
compressor.
A/C compressor clutch engagement is controlled by several components: the A/C-heater control, A/C pressure transducer, A/C compressor clutch relay,
evaporator temperature sensor and the powertrain control module (PCM). The PCM may delay compressor clutch engagement for up to thirty seconds.
