well, did your 'mechanic' hook up guages to the system?? if there is not enough refrigerant the low pressure switch will not allow power to the compressor.

basic ac diag....:dunno:

here,....read this:

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=611551&highlight=ac

df

 

Had the system evacuated

That is all I paid for, don't have much money, I then attempted AC Pro recharge which I have done times before without issue, but compressor was not turning before I attempted recharge. So the only thing professionally done was the evac, I have no gauges, shouldn't need them, recharge kit has a gauge. We did just jump the compressor from the battery and it turns. There is no power to the single wire/plug that goes to the compressor. Tested the relay to be okay. Additionally, I thought the AC fan was to come on immediately upon pressing the snowflake, not as mine which seems to come on based on the thermal switch attached to the radiator?

 

How did you "check" the A/C compressor relay?

 

Appreciate your help


I did answer your question directly. Looks like this thread is getting somewhat negative, appreciate your suggestions and questions.

 

Checking the AC Relay

To answer specifically, I put a positive lead on 85 and ground on 86 or visa versa, and heard a "click".
But, this is an important clue, I just don't know how, but I know it is "different". Normally when I have recharged cars with compressors not running, they start after you get some in. The difference this time when I charged this car is; the can didn't empty and get cold like all the other times. My roomie says the relay could be getting the power, just not letting it through.
Which relays are interchangeable so I can rule it out? Both fan relays check out also.

 

first of all, you *do* need a set of guages to properly diagnose an ac system. to attempt to do otherwise is like trying to run a relay in ballet slippers. sure your feet are 'covered', but you won't make it around the first turn.

similarly, trying to force refrigerant into a system that may already be full will not work, and the guage will not necessarily indicate that accurately.

did you even read the post i linked?? :dunno:

it covers *ALL* of your questions on 'how to', in plain english. there is no magical 'switch' to turn or special secret to these systems. they all pretty much work the same way.

please go back and re-read the link, then go on you tube and learn how to use a set of guages.

then go get some and reinspect your car.

until then, guessing and playing eenie meenie minee moe with the relays will not result in a proper repair.

df