Jeep Cherokee (XJ): High pressure cut-off switch. High pressure relief valve. Low pressure cycling clutch switch

High pressure cut-off switch

DESCRIPTION

The high pressure cut-off switch is located on the discharge line between the compressor and the condenser inlet. The switch is screwed onto a fitting that contains a Schrader-type valve, which allows the switch to be serviced without discharging the refrigerant system. The discharge line fitting is equipped with an O-ring to seal the switch connection.

OPERATION

The high pressure cut-off switch is connected in series electrically with the low pressure cycling clutch switch between ground and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The switch contacts open and close causing the PCM to turn the compressor clutch on and off. This prevents compressor operation when the discharge line pressure approaches high levels.

The high pressure cut-off switch contacts are open when the discharge line pressure rises above 3100 to 3375 kPa (450 to 490 psi). The switch contacts will close when the discharge line pressure drops to 1860 to 2275 kPa (270 to 330 psi).

The high pressure cut-off switch is a factory-calibrated unit. The switch cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.

High pressure relief valve

DESCRIPTION

A high pressure relief valve is located on the compressor manifold, which is on the side of the compressor.

This mechanical valve is designed to vent refrigerant from the system to protect against damage to the compressor and other system components, caused by condenser air flow restriction or an overcharge of refrigerant.

OPERATION

The high pressure relief valve vents the system when a discharge pressure of 3445 to 4135 kPa (500 to 600 psi) or above is reached. The valve closes when a minimum discharge pressure of 2756 kPa (400 psi) is reached.

The high pressure relief valve vents only enough refrigerant to reduce the system pressure, and then re-seats itself. The majority of the refrigerant is conserved in the system. If the valve vents refrigerant, it does not mean that the valve is faulty.

The high pressure relief valve is a factory-calibrated unit. The valve cannot be adjusted or repaired, and must not be removed or otherwise disturbed.

The valve is only serviced as a part of the compressor assembly.

Low pressure cycling clutch switch

DESCRIPTION

The low pressure cycling clutch switch is located on the top of the accumulator. The switch is screwed onto an accumulator fitting that contains a Schradertype valve, which allows the switch to be serviced without discharging the refrigerant system. The accumulator fitting is equipped with an O-ring to seal the switch connection.

OPERATION

The low pressure cycling clutch switch is connected in series electrically with the high pressure cut-off switch, between ground and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The switch contacts open and close causing the PCM to turn the compressor clutch on and off. This regulates the refrigerant system pressure and controls evaporator temperature. Controlling the evaporator temperature prevents condensate water on the evaporator fins from freezing and obstructing air conditioning system air flow.

The low pressure cycling clutch switch contacts are open when the suction pressure is approximately 141 kPa (20.5 psi) or lower. The switch contacts will close when the suction pressure rises to approximately 234 to 262 kPa (34 to 38 psi) or above. Lower ambient temperatures, below approximately -1 C (30 F), will also cause the switch contacts to open. This is due to the pressure/temperature relationship of the refrigerant in the system.

The low pressure cycling clutch switch is a factorycalibrated unit. It cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.