1994 Volvo 850 Sedan Non-Turbo B5254FS

Ok. I had my AC repaired by this mechanic who pretty much did a ghetto job on my AC in spring 2005. I had bought a new/rebuilt compressor (dont remember it was last year), the mechanic installed the compressor. Worked beautifully until some freak pothole I ran into, made the AC fail again. So i bring it back to the mechanic, (I needed some exhaust work done anyways so i can pass inspection), and he rigged it up again. Once again the AC failed on me at the end of September 2005. So I talked to him, he tells me it could the condensor.

Ok, now that recently i have put in a new condensor, and tried refilling the system with r-134a, the compressor turns on for 1 second, and shuts off for 3 seconds. This happens over and over again. I can't see it being either the condensor (since it is brand spanking new), or the compressor.

What other choices do I have? Why would the compressor keep on doing this?
I very much doubt its the evaporator, since I know people that have 500,000+ miles on their volvos and never had a problems with them.

I heard there is a switch that you can bypass in the back of the compressor also. If there is, how would I go about bypassing it? Would love to see a wiring diagram I can possibly use.

Also when refilling the system with r-134a, is the low/high pressure fitting the one with the black cap on it that says r134a on it? Where is the location of the low/high pressure fittings. Just want to make sure i'm filling the system up the right way.

The system blows out hot air. Doesn't even blow a hint of cold air.

Any help would be so much appreciated. Thanks.

Compressors seldom fail and the same for condensors. You need to add one or two cans of R134a to your system at that little black cap. The 6Nm means "finger tight". Make sure gas is coming out of the can... the top will be very cold. I have tightend the screw on valve too hard and that kept the gas from leaving the can.
MIJ is correct, the evaporators leak on these cars and it is 12 hours of labor to replace it. Do not ask your incompetent mechanic to replace the evaporator!

Klaus
--
(V♂LV♂s 1995 854T, 1998 V70R)

Low gas pressure for sure.
When you refilled, did you use the refrigerant that also contains
"leak sealant"?
I redid my 850 last summer with a can of stuff from Pep Boys in the
U.S., (We can't buy freon in Canada without a trade certificate) and
still blowing colder than a ....
Armie

--
Luck favours the prepared.

Anyone? Still trying to look for an answer about this AC problem. Any help would be great.

Hate to say it but my quess is that it's unrelated to the compressor and that now your evaporator is leaking gas so no matter what you do you're not going to have a working system until your evaporator is replaced...and sorry to say again, but it's a huge job...about $1200 or more as the entire dash has to come out of your car. My suggestion is to buy some gas that has dye in it so you can accurately diagnose the leak with a UV light. The low pressure inlet is the only valve you have to add gas. It's just in front of the passenger side headlight and has a black screw on lid that has 6Nm stamped on it. Btw, all 850's eventually have to have their evaporators replaced...it's just part of 850 ownership (if you want to have a working A/C).
--
1998 S70 T5 Emarald Green Metallic, 2004 V70 2.5T Ruby Red, Previous Owner of Black '94 850 Turbo Wagon. My cars have been running so well lately they've got me worried.