PCM Diagnostics & Tuning HP Tuners | Holley | Diablo
Sponsored by:
Sponsored by:

How does the PCM control A/C?

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 05-17-2010, 10:11 PM
  #1  
TECH Fanatic
Thread Starter
iTrader: (6)
 
1SLwLS1's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,360
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts

Default How does the PCM control A/C?

Looking to see if anyone knows the different variables or parameters on how the PCM controls the A/C. I am struggling diagnosing my gf's 2000 Silverado. All of the sensors seems to be functioning normally. I have done extensive tests on the low pressure cycling switch and relay. I have cleaned out condenser fins, removed cabin air filters, checked pressure readings. All seem to be in range.

It will usually work for a while (5-10 minutes) and then fail and blow ambient air, not heated air, ambient. The temperature actuator works. SOMETIMES when it starts to fail, the readings on the rear view for compass and ambient temp get all screwy. Trying to figure out how the PCM determines what to control and when.
Old 05-18-2010, 11:48 AM
  #2  
TECH Fanatic
iTrader: (13)
 
flame's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Waterloo, Ontario
Posts: 1,169
Likes: 0
Received 2 Likes on 2 Posts

Default

Does it have Auto Climate and is it in auto mode when it doesn't work? My Grand Prix when the ambient temp sensor crapped out the a/c would not be turned on unless I ran it in manual mode. The module thought it was cold outside from the false reading and shut off the a/c compressor.
Old 05-18-2010, 12:09 PM
  #3  
TECH Fanatic
Thread Starter
iTrader: (6)
 
1SLwLS1's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,360
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts

Default

Its a manual only style setup. I am thinking that there may be an issue with the ambient temp sensor though. Like I said, those readings displayed on the rear view for bearing and temp, they go all screwy sometimes. Maybe wiring, maybe sensor, maybe both, i dont know
Old 05-18-2010, 01:11 PM
  #4  
TECH Fanatic
iTrader: (7)
 
Ackattack1's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2003
Location: Valley Center KS
Posts: 1,602
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts

Default

My 03 suburban's rear view mirror temp reading gets screwy too. It will read 97 when its like 50 sometimes.

Where is that sensor physically located?
Old 05-18-2010, 01:15 PM
  #5  
TECH Fanatic
Thread Starter
iTrader: (6)
 
1SLwLS1's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,360
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts

Default

That sensor should be in front of the condenser on the driver side behind the grill. I believe the bracket connects to the hood latch bracket as well.
Old 05-18-2010, 02:35 PM
  #6  
TECH Fanatic
iTrader: (13)
 
flame's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Waterloo, Ontario
Posts: 1,169
Likes: 0
Received 2 Likes on 2 Posts

Default

Okay manual only then forget the other idea. When it stops blowing cold get out and tap the clutch plate on the compressor with the engine running and see if it engages. I've seen lots where the clutch plate air gap is too large and the magnet can't pull it in and it only acts up hot. Use a broom stick and don't get your self caught in the belts. Other wise there is a high pressure cut switch and the pcm could be seeing too high of pressure and shuting off the compressor.
Old 05-18-2010, 02:45 PM
  #7  
TECH Fanatic
Thread Starter
iTrader: (6)
 
1SLwLS1's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,360
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts

Default

Haven't heard that one yet, thanks, I'll try it out! I haven't been able to get a reading from the high pressure cutoff on the back of the compressor yet, that will be tonight. Any other controls? I know when a WOT condition is present, the PCM kills compressor, what about other readings, aside from they cycling and safety systems?



Quick Reply: How does the PCM control A/C?



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 12:27 PM.