I have a 1996 dodge ram 1500 with a 5.2 v8 With an automatic transmission and when you turn on the AC the compressor turns on and off and it looks like it gets stuck On something. Was wondering if there’s an easy fix. There’s no codes and has 63,000 miles.
What are the system pressures? It's pretty likely some refrigerant would have leaked out over the last 27 years. Regarding compressor operation, what does "looks like it gets stuck on something" mean? What is actually happening?
When the AC is on It spins for about a second making a clicking sound and then stops spinning’s for about 5 seconds and it repeats that process. I do not know the system pressure but I need to buy something to read it.
Low side may be going into suction due to low refrigerant, dropping pressure to the point where the cutout turns off the compressor to protect it. You need a full manifold gauge set to see what's going on though. Those cheap low-side gauges on the so-called "recharge cans" are virtually worthless for diagnosis, and those stupid things should be avoided in any event.
Is there any manifold gauge set that you recommend specifically?
I have the Harbor Freight set and it works fine. For occasional home use just about any inexpensive set will be adequate. Here's one on Amazon for under $35:
https://www.amazon.com/Orion-Motor-Tech-Conditioning-Maintenance/dp/B08V5JWJSB
@chucktobias is probably right, you may be low on refrigerant. I'm surprised there is any refrigerant at all if that was the original refrigerant. Even if you never drive it, all refrigerants in cars slowly leak to keep their seals lubricated.
Are you sure it's low on refrigerant? If it's only in the 60s or low 70s, it may be cycling on and off road to keep the evaporator from freezing. It's all computer controlled.
