Hello everyone,

When I turn on the A/C compressor switch in my 1993 245 the steering becomes very noticeably more difficult, almost as if the power steering stops working. There is also a loud squeaking noise (I presume from the belt) which comes and go's, not fitting any real pattern but mostly during acceleration.

The A/C works in that it blows cool air, but do those symptoms indicate any particular problem? It seems odd that the power steering would be so strongly impacted by having the A/C compressor running. I understand there would be some change from having additional systems running off the same engine power. But it seems too much to be "normal".

And same with the squeaking. That there is some squeaking doesn't seem odd. But the amount of squeaking and how it comes and goes without any apparent pattern (e.g. it doesn't happen only during acceleration or only during idle) seems like it could mean there is a problem.

Thank you for lending me your time and expertise.

A loose belt causes squealing, so does a worn belt.

Do you change your belts according to Volvo's schedule in your maintenance book? I thought this was a fairly short interval on our 740s - but I followed their advice.

When was the last time you changed your belts?

If the belt slips on your AC, it heats up - this could cause it to slip on your power steering as well.

I think the p/s belt runs off the a/c compressor and the a/c copmpressor runs off the crank pulley--probably a loose a/c belt. Without the load of the compressor running, the belt is tight enough to run the p/s ok but not tight enough to do both. -- Dave

Squealing usually equals a loose belt. If the same belt works the air conditioning and the power steering, you would more notice the power steering problem than the air conditioning cutting out when the belt squeals. I suggest making sure the pullys are clean and change the belt.
Jimo

Also make sure that the pump and compressor mounts are bolted down tight. Plus, if the system uses an idler make sure this is working properly.