Compressor HVAC: Description and Operation

The AC System utilizes a DA-6 compressor. The DA-6 Compressor is a 10 cubic inch displacement, six-cylinder axial type mechanism consisting of three double-ended pistons actuated by a swash plate shaft assembly. The compressor is located at the lower right of the engine centerline with respect to the front of the engine. The compressor performs two main functions. It provides pressure and temperature levels at which heat exchange can take place by compressing the low-pressure refrigerant vapor from the evaporator into a high-pressure, high-temperature vapor. It also pumps refrigerant (and refrigerant oil) through the A/C system.

A magnetic clutch is used to drive the DA-6 compressor shaft. When voltage is applied to the clutch coil, the clutch plate and hub assembly, which is solidly coupled to the compressor shaft, is drawn by magnetic force rearward toward the pulley which rotates freely on the front head casting. The magnetic force locks the clutch plate and pulley together as one unit. The compressor shaft then turns with the pulley. When voltage is removed from the clutch coil, springs in the clutch plate and hub assembly move the clutch plate away from the pulley and the clutch plate and compressor shaft cease to rotate.