How do you know if your A/C compressor is bad. My engine still runs but under the hood when you turn on the A/C every 5 seconds it turns for about 2 then shuts off again. Is it supposed to keep running or on off like that? No it is not blowing cold air in the least.

 

low freion. get a recharg kit

 

I agree, low on refrigerant. Low because it's leaking.
Look for oil leaks at the front of the compressor, at the connections (both ends) of the high and low pressure lines at the accumulator and condensor.

 

To answer your question, yes it is supposed to come on and turn off, not run continuously, but it's not supposed to do it as often as yours is. I'm not sure the correct interval, maybe 15 seconds or so, from what I've heard. Mine does the same thing, but I'm still getting some cold air. I was told by my mechanic that it is low freon, and might just need a recharge or might need more extensive work. I'm curious about the recharge kit mentioned in one reply, how cheap and easy it is to use, etc., since the price quoted by the mechanic for a recharge was kind of a lot.

Anne
'91 S-10 Blazer, 2dr, 4.3L, 4X4
151,000 miles

 

I bought a recharge kit at the shop for $13.45 a can so not too expensive. Don't know if it works yet Blazer in the shop for clutch work.