Viper SRT-10 V10-8.4L (2008)
Refrigerant Pressure Sensor / Switch: Description and Operation
A/C Pressure Transducer
Description
DESCRIPTION
The A/C pressure transducer (1) is a switch that is installed on a fitting located on the A/C discharge line. An internally threaded fitting on the A/C
pressure transducer connect it to the externally threaded Schrader-type fitting on the A/C discharge line. A rubber O-ring seals the connection between
the A/C pressure transducer and the discharge line fitting. The A/C pressure transducer is connected to the vehicle electrical system by a molded plastic
connector with three terminals.
Operation
OPERATION
The A/C pressure transducer monitors the pressures in the high side of the refrigerant system through its connection to a fitting on the A/C discharge line.
The A/C pressure transducer will change its internal resistance in response to the pressures it monitors.
The powertrain control module (PCM) provides a five volt reference signal and a sensor ground to the A/C pressure transducer, then monitors the output
voltage of the A/C pressure transducer on a sensor return circuit to determine refrigerant pressure. The PCM is programmed to respond to the A/C
pressure transducer and other sensor inputs by controlling the operation of the A/C compressor clutch and the radiator cooling fan to help optimize A/C
system performance and to protect the system components from damage. The PCM will disengage the A/C compressor clutch when high side pressure
rises above 3219 kPa (476 psi) and re-engage the clutch when high side pressure drops below 2937 kPa (426 psi). The A/C pressure transducer will also
disengage the A/C compressor clutch if the high side pressure drops below 110 kPa (16 psi) and will re-engage the clutch when the high side pressure
rises above 220 kPa (32 psi). If the refrigerant pressure rises above 1654 kPa (240 psi), the PCM will actuate the cooling fan. The A/C pressure
transducer input to the PCM will also prevent the A/C compressor clutch from engaging when ambient temperatures are below about 1.0° C (50° F) due
to the pressure/temperature relationship of the refrigerant.
A Schrader-type valve in the A/C discharge line fitting permits the A/C pressure transducer to be removed or installed without disturbing the refrigerant
in the A/C system.
The A/C pressure transducer is diagnosed using a scan tool See: Powertrain Management/Computers and Control Systems/Testing and
Inspection/Reading and Clearing Diagnostic Trouble Codes.
The A/C pressure transducer cannot be adjusted or repaired and must be replaced if inoperative or damaged.
