The AC stopped blowing cold air in my son's 2008 Tundra. Changed the relay and not hearing the clutch on the compressor engage/disengage. Based upon that fact, I assume the problem is related to one of the following issues; compressor clutch needs to be replaced, ac compressor needs to be replaced, or the system is not holding a charge and has a leak.

Am I on the right track here? I live in Fredericksburg and my local shop can't get the vehicle in until May 6th. Also, curious what I might expect to pay for repairs based upon any prior experiences with this type of work. I know exact costs are hard to factor. Thanks, Ags!

I would check the charge with some gauges and a small can of r134.

If it is low in Freon the clutch won't be activated via low pressure switch.

That would mean I've got a leak in the system, correct?

Your Low Pressure switch will shut off the clutch to protect the system.

Being low on Freon will trigger that. So check the pressures and add some if needed.

I had a leak in my low pressure port shrader valve on my 2010 F150. Retightening it lasted a little while but I ended up swapping it out with a handy tool that didn't require me to evacuate the system to do so.

Check this site out for the expected pressures at different temps.

https://www.acprocold.com/help-and-advice/system-pressure-chart/

Really appreciate the quick advice. Trying to find someone local that can at least check the system with manifold gauges to get an idea of what is going on sooner rather than later.

Yes. You'll have to get the system charged to troubleshoot further.

Canyon99 said:

---

Really appreciate the quick advice. Trying to find someone local that can at least check the system with manifold gauges to get an idea of what is going on sooner rather than later.

---

You can borrow the gauges at any auto parts.

Check your clutch. I've replaced mine twice on my 2007. It's easy to see if it's working. Look behind the front left wheel well and find the compressor. There is a rubber ring that connects the ID to the OD of the clutch, I'm assuming as a dampener. That rubber piece will fail and won't engage the compressor. The light on the AC knob inside will flash slowly when it happens.

Got it in with my mechanic and he evacuated the system and recharged as he was unable to find a leak. All ac system parts worked accordingly after the recharge. Looks like I get to see how long it will hold a charge. Fingers crossed.

I appreciate all of the responses in this thread.

coolerguy12 said:

---

Check your clutch. I've replaced mine twice on my 2007. It's easy to see if it's working. Look behind the front left wheel well and find the compressor. There is a rubber ring that connects the ID to the OD of the clutch, I'm assuming as a dampener. That rubber piece will fail and won't engage the compressor. The light on the AC knob inside will flash slowly when it happens.

---

Never had the blinking light on the AC control. Clutch functions fine with the recharge.

Canyon99 said:

---

Got it in with my mechanic and he evacuated the system and recharged as he was unable to find a leak. All ac system parts worked accordingly after the recharge. Looks like I get to see how long it will hold a charge. Fingers crossed.

I appreciate all of the responses in this thread.

---

I can't explain it but I've seen an evac and recharge last years.. more than a few instances across different cars.

Good luck

Well, that was a complete fail. Blowing warm again by noon today. I

Upon cranking the engine this morning, there was an odd smell that was not there before today. My guess is the evaporator is crapped out as i noticed fluid and dye on the top of the transmission and skid plate leaking from above. Taking the vehicle back to the mechanic soon.

Just heard back from them and my suspicions have been confirmed. Not a job I am going to tackle myself.

Edit: never mind- didn't read the previous post closely enough.

Get a cheap black light flashlight from Harbor Freight or wherever. Shine it on all of the lines, compressor fittings, etc. also under the dash. Leaks will glow a bright green. Doesn't have to be charged for this.