AC Control Panel Issues

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Old Oct 7, 2013 | 03:32 PM
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I have a 1994 940 non turbo wagon, B230F. I'm thinking about spending the money to get my AC fixed (even though it's getting chilly, still good to have it operational), but I'm not sure what other problems I'll run into. The compressor doesn't appear to be attempting to kick on (or catch lock the clutch or whatever) so I can't add refrigerant. When I turn the AC on it blows air though. So I'm thinking maybe the pressure switch is bad.
On the other hand, the air inside the car only blows on my feet. The **** to change how hard it blows (0-5) seems to work fine, but the direction **** doesn't change where the air blows to. So I'm wondering if this is electronic or cable operated. If by cable I might be able to reattach it if it's broken or disconnected in the back. However if the ducting behind the dash has problems I may just say forget it.
Also I do think the temperature **** works. It doesn't get cold but does feel hotter when I turn it up. Not sure about the recirculating button or AC OFF button.
 
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Old Oct 7, 2013 | 03:46 PM
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To test the compressor jumper it across the terminals at the switch; see if it engages. You got refrigerant in the system? Open the port, see if there is pressure at the valve.
Your vents are not working: could be the vacuum line or the controller. Check for a vacuum leak, and or swap another controller--they are electronic/vacuum operated.
 
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Old Oct 7, 2013 | 05:41 PM
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I hooked a refill can to the port and it wouldn't take anything.
The air does blow on my feet. I'll attempt to pull the panel to inspect it. Thanks
 
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Old Oct 8, 2013 | 06:41 PM
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a 1994 came with R12, which is no longer manufacturered or sold, many cars got R134a conversions. which does yours have?

the compressor won't operate unless the AC system pressure is in a reasonable range, there's a high pressure and a low pressure switch, either one disables the compressor. the signal comes out of the dashboard control module, goes through the switch on the reciever/dryer 'beer can' thing, then through a switch on the condensor by the radiator, then to the compressor. both switches have to be closed for the compressor to switch on. you can check for voltages on the various pins of these switches to see if one of them is preventing operation.
 
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Old Oct 13, 2013 | 06:47 AM
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I'll try to test power to the pressure switches. I'm thinking one or both of those will be it. Even if it's low the compressor should still be attempting to kick on right?
 
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Old Oct 13, 2013 | 10:18 AM
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1994's came with R134, as did all US certified cars starting with MY 1993.
 
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Old Oct 13, 2013 | 01:44 PM
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Originally Posted by BigSlim
I'll try to test power to the pressure switches. I'm thinking one or both of those will be it. Even if it's low the compressor should still be attempting to kick on right?
no, it won't come on if its too low OR too high.
 
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Old Oct 13, 2013 | 06:34 PM
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Ok might just take it to our body shop mechanic. Thanks for the tips.
 
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Old Oct 13, 2013 | 09:18 PM
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Originally Posted by lev
1994's came with R134, as did all US certified cars starting with MY 1993.
you sure? I'm almost positive my 1996 850T had a sticker under the hood that it had been converted to r134, but that car is at my son's house now 7 hours from here, so I'm not looking
 
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Old Oct 14, 2013 | 12:39 AM
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All my ac lines appear to be original and has a factory looking r134 info sticker. I do know for sure it is not an r12 system.
 
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