E 320 4MATIC Sedan (210.082) V6-3.2L (112.941) (1999)
Compressor Clutch: Description and Operation
Electromagnetic Clutch
Purpose
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Connect the power flow between the vehicle engine and A/C compressor
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Switch off the A/C compressor in the event of a mechanical defect.
Design
The pulley (1) on the A/C compressor drive shaft (4) is driven by a poly-V-belt. It turns on the ball bearing (3) around the magnetic coil (5) fastened to
the A/C compressor housing. The pressure plate (6) with rubber insert (7) is connected to the A/C compressor drive shaft (4) by splines (8) allowing it to
move in the axial direction.
Function
The push-button control module (N19, N22) actuates the electromagnetic clutch (A9k1) and provides power to the magnetic coil (5) to start up the A/C
compressor. The magnetic force pulls the pressure plate (6) in against the rubber insert (7) and holds it in place. This closes the power flow between the
vehicle engine and A/C compressor. If the power to the magnetic coil (5) is switched off, the pressure plate (6) moves away from the rubber insert (7) to
its initial position interrupting the flow of power.