[Vwdiesel] AC woes

[LBaird119 at aol.com]

> How do I swap the magnetic
>  clutch/coil between the compressors? I suppose I have
>  to figure how to get the shaft nut off w/out the shaft
>  turning. Can I do it w/out discharging the system
>  (assuming there is refrigerant in it)? Tx.

  On many cars it's possible.  I suppose you could on the Jetta but you'll
have to unmount the compressor first, so you can get at the nut and snap
rings.
  An impact wrench will get the nut.  Often a rachet and deep socket will
do and just use a screwdriver to wedge the compressor from turning.  The
nut is self locking and is generally tightened down to a clearance between
the coil and the friction plate on the pulley rather than torqued down.  From
there you pull a couple snap rings and things slide off.  :)


In a message dated 8/2/2003 5:21:15 AM Pacific Daylight Time,
val at swamps.roc.ny.us writes:

> Generally, your low side shouldn't drop below
>  20 and should not be above 35 or so.


  That's what I always liked and thought as well but a lot of systems are
undercharged at that pressure level.  They often need 40 to 50 psi at a
high idle, to maintain good efficiency.  The discharge air is a tad warmer
but it's steady rather than fluctuating as the compressor cycles.  Some
systems kick out at about 28 psi so as soon as you hit the highway, it's
cycling if you have around 30 psi.  :P
     Loren