sursmoke

Hey guys, I have a 2003 GS430 and my a/c is acting up. It will work for awhile (ranges from 5 mins to 1 hour) then all of the sudden it starts blowing hot air.... I thought I was low on freon so i had this guy connect his gauges to pump freon in my car...he tells me that I have plenty of freon and said something about my low side pressure is not dropping back...As we looked at the a/c compressor I can see that it is running. The guy that looked at my car and said it could be either a valve stuck or my dryer (drier I dont know the correct spelling) could be bad....

Can someone tell me if they have heard of a similar problem, or know how to fix my problem....

Also, is there a diagram that shows all the a/c parts under the hood?

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

benzo555

iTrader: (11)

I had a similar situation on my Acura. The A/C worked fine for about 20 min and then the AC clutch got too hot and dis-engaged. Ended up buying an entire rebuilt unit for about $200.. hopefully yours is not that severe.

audax

iTrader: (10)

Most problems with A/C systems come from lack of or too much pressure. Your buddy is probably on to something when he says the low side pressure is not dropping back. The low side pressure switch may have gone bad and your system is not cycling on and off to reduce the pressure as a normal system would.

A/C systems aren't terribly complex but it doesn't offer many parts for the do-it-yourselfer to diagnose without expensive equipment. On top of that, many factory service manuals do not include good specifics on A/C system repair.

First I'd check the pressures (may need to have your buddy help out or get some guages at the local auto parts store). If the pressures are not in check, I'd consult the service manual on testing the pressure switches.

Overall, you'd be much better off (time and money wise) just taking to it a trustworthy repair shop.

audax

iTrader: (10)

BTW, service manuals can be downloaded with a daily subscription to http://techinfo.lexus.com

sursmoke

i appreciate the replies fellas... Now I'm off to trying to find my solution.

slickgt1

iTrader: (1)

Had this problem once in my Infiniti. There are usually two switches in the Jap cars. Low pressure and High pressure. The low pressure is usually the first to go. I've usually seen them inside an orifice tube. The switches are usually inside, so the entire tube gets replaced. This sux and usually costs a **** load, and involves draining and refilling of the Freon. I recommend going to a shop to do this. They can drain the Freon for you, and put it back in, saving you money in the recharge. On the Infiniti, this cost over $200 just for that one stinking tube with the low press switch inside.

sursmoke

damn that sucks....but i appreciate your input i will go and get this checked out