AC doesn't work while idling Peterbilt 579

Discussion in 'Heavy Duty Diesel Truck Mechanics Forum' started by Edjahman, Aug 3, 2018.

  1. buddyd157

    buddyd157 Road Train Member

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    it wouldn't "naturally need" a charge. check for oily residue around ad many fittings that you can see.

    check for chafing hoses that might be touching each other, or against another part under the hood.

    i would try to take off the housing in the sleeper and check for dust/dirt/grime, clogging the evap back there.

    you can also check the evap box, under (usually) the passenger side just under the dash, for same clog.

    you can also check for the water drip hose for drainage. (usually) around the passenger side, under the hood, it will look like a short piece of rubber hose.

    your a/c system ,may or may not have a sight glass, that you might be able to see freon passing thru.
     
  2. Edjahman

    Edjahman Medium Load Member

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    OK thank you for your replies!

    I'll keep you posted!
     
  3. BUMBACLADWAR

    BUMBACLADWAR Road Train Member

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    When you say sorta works,do you mean blows weak out the vent ,till the blower motor spins up.If so ,Id be looking at blower motor,vent control motor,or a relay.Id start with blower motor.
     
  4. Edjahman

    Edjahman Medium Load Member

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    It's just nowhere near as cold as it's supposed to be.

    The guy at the TA blew out the condenser and he checked the refrigerant level and the compressor etc and he's telling me it's fine.

    I'm going to have to take it to Peterbilt next week but in the mean time it's sorta cold but definitely not cold enough.
     
  5. Edjahman

    Edjahman Medium Load Member

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    It just used to be way colder. This all happened between yesterday and today.
     
  6. Hammer166

    Hammer166 Crusty Information Officer

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    On a truck that new, it's most likely an actuator for one of the airdoors. Try shutting off the water to the heater core and see if that helps. These newer systems always have hot water flowing thru the core and use airflow doors to manage the output temp, most likely the door isn't fully shutting off the air from the hot side.
     
  7. Edjahman

    Edjahman Medium Load Member

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    Where might I locate that valve? I remember a million years ago they used to be under the hood on the passenger side of a lot of tractors. I've never noticed that on a newer tractor.

    Thank you!
     
  8. Edjahman

    Edjahman Medium Load Member

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    I'm going to look for it right this instant! I'm on my 34!

    Thank you for your suggestion! I really appreciate it! Peterbilt doesn't open until Monday in Elko Nevada!
     
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  9. Hammer166

    Hammer166 Crusty Information Officer

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    Not sure. I know Detroit moved them up on the right rear where they're easy to find. Just trace the heater lines. Usually one for the cab and one for the sleeper.
     
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  10. Edjahman

    Edjahman Medium Load Member

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    OK thank you!
     
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