tom camaro

I'm look for a little information to finish up my LT1 swap. I stuck the motor into an '83 v6 body. The existing connector has the old style blade type connector (non weather pack/tight) where the wires exit this connector there is a diode see link here for a wiring diagram.

The scematic comes from https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/ltx-...ing-lt1-c.html second entry.

Is this diode needed for the 95 model LT1 compressor?
Does the order the wires are connected to the clutch matter?
What is this diode for?

Thanks.

TexasSilhouette

iTrader: (4)

The diode is there to suppress (short) the high voltage spike that occurs when the clutch coil (or any coil for that matter) is released. The spike can cause electronic component damage.

tom camaro

Thanks for the information. We have answered two questions

Diode needed - YES
Purpose of Diode - eliminate high voltage spike

Do you know if GM changed the size/type of diode from 83 to 95?
More importantly do you know which size/type of diode will work with a 95 model compressor?

TexasSilhouette

iTrader: (4)

I suspect any >12V, 1watt or greater diode will do the trick. Not so much a GM spec as a selection of adequacy. Too, be sure to install it in the correct direction else it is a dead short.

tom camaro

Does it matter which wire goes to which pin on the compessor clutch as long as the diode is installed properly?