This 1980 Thunderbird has had the AC belt off since I bought it. I could always hear the clutch click when I flicked past "AC" on the controls, so I figured it might work. I bought a belt today and put it on. The clutch does engage and spin the the pump. It sounds just like it should. It stays engaged, not clicking on and off, which usually means it has a good charge. Here's the issue though. The pipes got cool, but not sweaty-cold. Same with the AC temp in the car. It was cooler than the vent, but not much. The ambient temp in the garage was 63*. I know some cars have a temperature sensor if the ambient temp is too low it won't run the AC. But with the compressor running, I doubt that's the issue.
Any ideas what might be wrong? If it was low on refrigerant, wouldn't the clutch cycle on and off (or not engage at all)? That's what every other car I have had did when low/empty. Think I have a blockage?
Just brainstorming, looking for clues. It would be pretty sweet to have the AC working in this car.
I have the manifold gages and vacuum pump to charge R-134 systems, but I've never done a conversion or messed with an R12 setup.
If you have the gauges and pump why not convert to 134A? I went crazy last Summer and replaced everything but the evaporator. I now have frosty AC in 100+ Texas heat. This link from a Mustang forum was my bible for the conversion: http://www.corral.net/index.php/tech/maintenance/74-r12-to-r134a-conversion-on-1988-mustang-lx-5o
Here's a recent discussion thread from this site that has some good info: http://www.foxtbirdcougarforums.com/showthread.php?36293-A-C-issues&p=420331&highlight=#post420331
Good luck.