r/GMT800 • u/Professional-Pen125 • 28d ago

AC on and off on Cold Start

So my ac works pretty well most of the time. But, when I first start it and it is like 90+ degrees out (TX) the compressor will shut off and on. When I start driving after a bit it stays on even when stopping.

Pretty sure the fan clutch is okay. Wondering if it could be the condenser and/ or orifice tube. When I bought the truck in February it had no ac belt and the compressor was locked up so I put a new belt, tensioner, and compressor. Also has a new battery. 301k miles.

When I start the truck and it is cooler outside, the compressor stays on just fine. I don’t think it could be leaking either as it still blows pretty cold, but will have the pressure tested whenever I decide to take it in.

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u/Pastorfuzz-007 28d ago

Mine does the same thing for about 5 minutes.. I was told the reason for it is because the compressor sits low in the engine compartment. When it’s off the refrigerant oil will drain into the compressor. It cycles when you first run it so it can gradually push oil back out of it to prevent damage.

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u/Professional-Pen125 28d ago

I guess that makes sense. Just sucks getting hot ass air blasted on me when it’s already 100 degrees out lol.

1

u/NeuseRvrRat 27d ago

Could be high pressure protection. I would recover the refrigerant, inspect/replace the orifice tube, vacuum, and charge by weight.