Air Conditioning (A/C) Clutch Relay

Fig. 19 Power Distribution Center (PDC):

OPERATION
The PCM controls the air conditioning clutch relay ground circuit. Buss bars in the Power Distribution Center (PDC) supply voltage to the solenoid side and power side of the relay. When the PCM receives an air conditioning input, it grounds the A/C compressor clutch relay and the radiator fan relay.

When the PCM senses low idle speeds or wide open throttle through the throttle position sensor, it removes the ground for the A/C compressor clutch relay.

When the relay de-energizes, the contacts open preventing air conditioning clutch engagement.

Also, if the PCM senses a part throttle launch condition, it disables the A/C compressor clutch for several seconds.

The air conditioning clutch relay is located in the PDC (Fig. 19). The inside top of the PDC cover has a label showing relay and fuse location.