AC compressor locks up on first start of the day bringing the serpentine belt to a stop. Meanwhile the crankshaft pulley still is turning on the stopped belt. Dealer tried adding fluid, rebuilding the compressor, and installing a new compressor. Issue has not been resolved to date. Dealer contacted Ford technical division and they referred to a compressor anti slugging strategy (CASS). They say this is normal if it can't be fixed. This issue places an extreme load on the compressor which will cause a premature failure of pump and serpentine belt. Belt also drives power steering pump which could result in a loss of steering effectiveness. This is definitely a safety problem. There should be a check valve in the ac system to prevent fluid from accumulating in the compressor over night. Ford is doing their best to weasel out of this problem.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
AC compressor locks up on first start of the day bringing the serpentine belt to a stop. Meanwhile the crankshaft pulley still is turning on the stopped belt. Dealer tried adding fluid, rebuilding the compressor, and installing a new compressor. Issue has not been resolved to date. Dealer contacted Ford technical division and they referred to a compressor anti slugging strategy (CASS). They say this is normal if it can't be fixed. This issue places an extreme load on the compressor which will cause a premature failure of pump and serpentine belt. Belt also drives power steering pump which could result in a loss of steering effectiveness. This is definitely a safety problem. There should be a check valve in the ac system to prevent fluid from accumulating in the compressor over night. Ford is doing their best to weasel out of this problem.
- William P., Anchorage, US