I was replacing the non functioning AC compressor on my 86 yesterday, and I noticed that someone had put some sort of diode or resistor between the two pins going to the front electric connector.

At least it looks like someone added it. Anyone know what this might be for?

Thanks,

GP

 

My 85 z28 has the same thing, I have no idea what it is for. I just did an AC delete so it was not important.

 

It's actually factory. I just rewired my AC for the new compressor yesterday.

The diode is there to shunt away the inductive "kick" when the clutch engages and disengages. If you have the style where the ECM has an A/C on input, it's also rather necessary. If your car is like mine, the worst it could do is **** off the blower controls. Either way I figured it's a good thing.

Don't ask me about wiring the AC line directly to one post of the fan relay so that it would kick on when the AC was on. Well, it worked, except when you shut the car off, the back EMF from the fan motor kept a few things running, including the blower motor and the check engine light.