Running engine with no AC refrigerant?
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Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 5,225
Likes: 70
From: Buffalo, NY
Car: 1988 IROC-Z
Engine: 427 SBC
Transmission: ProBuilt 700R4
Axle/Gears: Moser 12 Bolt / 3.73 TrueTrac
Running engine with no AC refrigerant?
I'm almost ready to start my car after my H/C/I swap. I had to remove my AC system. I put the AC back in, but it's not charged yet. It's ok to run the car right? Just as long as I don't use the AC correct? I do not want to damage the AC compressor.
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Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 28
Likes: 0
From: California
Car: 1982 Trans Am/1989 Iroc Z
Engine: T/A:1974 Corvette 350, Iroc:305 TPI
Transmission: T/A:Borg Warner 5-Speed, Iroc: Auto
Axle/Gears: T/A: Dana .44, Forgot Iroc
Re: Running engine with no AC refrigerant?
not a problem. Just dont turn A/C on. it will just act as a pulley, and will run the exact same as if it were charged but still off. Go fire it up!!
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Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,083
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From: Northwestern Pennsylvania
Car: 1985 Pontiac Trans Am
Engine: 355 with stuffs.
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 4.10 Posi
Re: Running engine with no AC refrigerant?
Until the A/C compressor clutch engages, it's just a pulley spinning freely with the rest of the accessories. However, since your system is empty, your A/C pressure switch should prevent the compressor clutch from engaging even if you do switch it on. Supreme Member

Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 1,545
Likes: 10
From: South Carolina
Car: 85 2M6, 87 'Bird 88 'burb
Engine: LX9, LG4, L05
Transmission: F23, 700r4, 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.63, 2.73, 4.10
Re: Running engine with no AC refrigerant?
thats right about the compressor not coming on without refrigerant in the system, the pressure switch won't allow it, it's been my fan overide for the past month and a half!
Thread Starter
Moderator




Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 5,225
Likes: 70
From: Buffalo, NY
Car: 1988 IROC-Z
Engine: 427 SBC
Transmission: ProBuilt 700R4
Axle/Gears: Moser 12 Bolt / 3.73 TrueTrac
Re: Running engine with no AC refrigerant?
Thanks guys! I'll hopefully have a video of it running this weekend!
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theshackle
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