Questions and Answers
Subaru SVX Lsi Isn't Cool
Q. Hello there, I am having a problem with my Automatic Air Conditioner in my 1994 Subaru SVX Lsi. The symptoms are: When the car is first started and the air conditioner begins to run, the fan and compressor are on. Just as the fan begins to approach full speed, the compressor and fan both go off for about 5-10 seconds, then the fan and compressor again come on and start through the cycle again.
This happens around 3-5 times until the A/C can eventually reach full speed. Once it reaches full speed the system appears to function correctly. When I checked the temp of the air coming out of the A/C, once the system began to function correctly, it was approximately 48-49 degrees F. I am aware that this system has some sensors that control the temperature of the car, and some sort of load sensor on the dash at the base of the windshield. I was wanting to know if this is a problem that could be possibly caused by a deficiency in gas in the system, or it could be caused by a bad sensor?
Thanks,
MikeA. Judging from the high vent temperature and the cycling of the compressor, I would have to say that the freon level is low. Since your car uses R-134a low freon will be more noticeable than in a R-12 system. Mainly because a R-134a system uses less freon and it is not as efficient as R-12.
There is a low-pressure cut off switch on the low pressure side of the system. If the low side pressure should drop below, generally, 20 psi, it will shut off the compressor to prevent damage. When you start a system that is low on freon, the pressure will drop to cut off levels and cause it to cycle as it fluctuates.
Also the vent temperature being as high as it is also indicates there is insufficient freon in the system. In a properly filled system I would expect to see a vent temperature of about 30 - 35 degrees.
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