Compressor HVAC: Description and Operation

NOTE:
- Internal A/C compressor components are not serviced separately. The FS-10 A/C compressor is serviced only as an assembly. The A/C clutch, A/C clutch pulley, A/C clutch field coil and the shaft seal are serviceable.
- Installation of a new suction accumulator is not required when repairing the air conditioning system except when there is physical evidence of system contamination from a failed A/C compressor or damage to the suction accumulator.
- The A/C compressor oil from vehicles equipped with an FS-10 A/C compressor may have a dark color while maintaining a normal oil viscosity. This is normal for this A/C compressor because carbon from the piston rings will discolor the oil.

The FS-10 A/C compressor has the following characteristics:
- a 10-cylinder swashplate design utilizing the tangential design mount
- a one-piece lip-type seal (installed from the front of the A/C compressor) which is used to seal it at the shaft opening in the assembly
- five double-acting pistons which operate within the cylinder assembly (The pistons are actuated by a swashplate that converts the rotating action of the shaft to a reciprocating force.)
- reed-type discharge valves located between the cylinder assembly and the head at each end of the A/C compressor
- uses PAG oil. This oil contains special additives required for the A/C compressor.

A/C Compressor Clutch Assembly:

The magnetic A/C clutch has the following characteristics:
- It drives the compressor shaft.
- When battery positive voltage (B+) is applied to the A/C clutch field coil, the clutch disc and hub assembly is drawn toward the A/C clutch pulley.
- The magnetic force locks the clutch disc and hub assembly and the A/C clutch pulley together as one unit, causing the compressor shaft to rotate.
- When B+ is removed from the A/C clutch field coil, springs in the clutch disc and hub assembly move the clutch disc away from the A/C clutch pulley.