A/C Compressor Clutch - Operation

CLUTCH - FIXED DISPLACEMENT A/C COMPRESSOR

On 2.2L diesel engine equipped models, the clutch components for the Denso fixed displacement A/C compressor provide the means to engage and disengage the compressor from the engine accessory drive belt. When the electromagnetic A/C clutch coil is energized, it magnetically draws the clutch plate into contact with the clutch pulley and drives the compressor shaft. When the coil is not energized, the pulley freewheels on the clutch hub bearing, which is part of the pulley assembly.

A/C compressor clutch engagement is controlled by the Engine Control Module (ECM). When the A/C-heater control is set to any A/C position, it sends a request signal on the CAN-IHS bus to the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), which then transfers the request on the CAN-C Bus to the ECM, which determines if operating conditions are correct for A/C clutch engagement. When all operating conditions have been met, the ECM sends a signal on a dedicated hardwired circuit back to the TIPM to energize the internal A/C clutch high side driver. When energized, the A/C clutch high side driver provides battery current to the A/C clutch coil.

The A/C clutch control system is diagnosed using a scan tool.

The A/C compressor clutch components cannot be adjusted or repaired and must be replaced if inoperative or damaged.