Ranger 4WD L4-2.3L VIN D (2002)
Compressor Clutch: Description and Operation
NOTE:
-
Internal A/C compressor components are not serviced separately. The FS-10 A/C compressor is serviced only as an assembly. The A/C clutch
plate, A/C clutch pulley, A/C clutch field coil, and the shaft seal are serviceable.
-
Replacement of the suction accumulator is not required when repairing the air conditioning system except when there is physical evidence of
system contamination from a failed A/C compressor or damage to the suction accumulator.
The FS-10 A/C compressor has the following characteristics:
-
A ten-cylinder swashplate design utilizing the tangential design mount.
-
A one-piece lip-type seal (replaceable from the front of the A/C compressor) is used to seal it at the shaft opening in the assembly.
-
Five double-acting pistons operate within the cylinder assembly. The pistons are actuated by a swashplate that changes the rotating action of the
shaft to a reciprocating force.
-
Reed-type discharge valves are located between the cylinder assembly and the head at each end of the A/C compressor.
-
The A/C compressor uses PAG oil or equivalent. This oil contains special additives required for the A/C compressor.
-
The A/C compressor oil from vehicles equipped with an FS-10 A/C compressor may have a dark color while maintaining a normal oil viscosity.
This is normal for the A/C compressor because carbon from the piston rings will discolor the oil.
The magnetic A/C clutch has the following characteristics:
-
It drives the compressor shaft.
-
When the battery positive voltage (B+) is applied to the A/C compressor clutch field coil, the clutch plate and hub assembly is drawn toward the
A/C clutch pulley.
-
The magnetic force locks the clutch plate and hub assembly and the A/C clutch pulley together as one unit, causing the compressor shaft to rotate.
-
When B+ is removed from the A/C compressor clutch field coil, springs in the clutch plate and hub assembly move the clutch plate away from the
A/C clutch pulley.