AC system is acting up

You can get one on a new bottle for about $20

 

You don't need a gauge, if the compressor is cycling - the freon is ok. When the compressor is getting old and when is hot, the clutch can not engage due to wear and is getting worse with hi-rpms and outside temp around 105. You need a new AC compressor. The only other thing you can do is remove the AC clutch and remove 1 shim. This will give you another 5-6 months of AC and than you replace.

 

There is probably a clogged line, try flushing the system also

 

Did you find your problem?
You may want to check your dash fan speed switch.

My W9 was having a lot of the same symptom's your describing, like start the day making cold then start only making cool air, shut it off for a while then it would blow cold again, it would work OK for a week (not good) then back to cool air. had this problem all last fall and this spring till I finally found it!
The switch was getting hot and losing connection, I also replaced the short controller wire harness as it was only about $30? it been working like a champ ever since.

And yes turning the fan speed switch off will turn the a/c system off

 

It sounds like an expansion valve issue. I would just replace both of them - first flush the entire system, have a new dryer put on and then change out the valves.

 

I'd guess plugged/sticking expansion valve. Mine was acting like you're describing. Had both of my expansion valves replaced earlier this year, they were both gummed up. Replaced both valves, new drier, new compressor, evac and recharge and it blows colder than ever...

The oil in the system can break down over time and form a gummy residue, it will cause the valves to stick and bind

 

I had something similar on mine and it ended up being the low pressure switch.

When the expansion valve goes bad, no freon will flow through AFAIK.

 

My compressor doesn't seem to shut off, is that usually low freon? I don't see a sight glass on my dryer. It's a Detroit powered t800

 

Usually low fron doesn't come on or cycles frequently. Not shutting off is either a switch problem or not enough clearance in the clutch itself. Unplug it if it still runs all the time its a clearance issue. Pull the center bolt out, screw a 5/8 bolt in the hole as a jack bolt then add shims as necessary to get like .08 clearance. You should just be able to spin the belt pulley with the belt off and not hear any drag.

 

I should've mentioned the clutch and compressor are less than a year old, so likely a switch issue. Thanks. It will stop compressing with the ac button off.