A/C Compressor bogs down engine

[1993GMCSierra]

Hi all,

I've noticed recently that my AC is beginning to short cycle (10 second bursts) which I know is because I'm a bit low on R-12. (The fact that I am running it when it's in the 50's and 60's may contribute also. )

That being said, whenever it kicks on, I notice a drop of about 200 RPMS (it does bounce back) and a very noticeable loss in power. Feels like I go from a V8 to the 4.3L when it kicks in.

On my other cars, I can't even tell when the AC kicks on, but it is extremely noticeable in the truck, especially at idle.

Is this relatively normal? Just doesn't seem like it should be such a huge loss in power.

 

[twomanymontes]

When the refrigerant gets low in my truck, it does the same thing, once charged it isn't as noticeable

 

[SilveradoGuy85]

Just charge the system up. Being low is the reason it's doing that. Mine did that and I recharged it and it stopped. Also anybody will recommend to change it over to the current 134a.

 

[MSCustoms]

Just charge the system up. Being low is the reason it's doing that. Mine did that and I recharged it and it stopped. Also anybody will recommend to change it over to the current 134a.

I used freeze 12 and am very happy with it. IIRC I didn't have to change o rings or anything

 

[2000CCSB]

AC problems in march!! is it that warm there??

CrewCab Steve

 

[MSCustoms]

AC problems in march!! is it that warm there??

CrewCab Steve

It was last week in AZ

 

[SilveradoGuy85]

AC problems in march!! is it that warm there??

CrewCab Steve

It was warm enough to wear shorts here in NC for 2-3 days and then now it's way below normal. Even had a little snow for a couple hours yesterday. That's NC Spring/Fall weather. When I wanted a good cold front to come in the winter for some good snow to play a little in with the truck it doesn't, but when it's supposed to warm up is when the cold front comes lol.