help A/C killing my engine

[webshot]

It pretty hot where I am at but I notice when I run my AC, my car drags tremedously and all around runs like crap. No funny noises or smells. Just car runs bad plus a little hotter than usual. Are there anythings I can do to combat this?

Any tips, experience or advice appreciated.

 

[HISSIN50]

Is the system overcharged?

Does it run ok at WOT?

 

[webshot]

Is the system overcharged?

Does it run ok at WOT?

Not sure if it is overcharged. I did just have it charged a few days ago. It doesnt run very well at WOT. I hear a noise that almost sounds like a rattle can of spray paint. Like tapping. Hard to explain but the noise I have heard before on other cars when it is exerting itself. I know I made that sound, sound worse than it is.

 

[vristang]

The 'rattle can' sound is a bad sign...
What is your timing set at???

As always, pull the codes, just in case...

At WOT the A/C should shut off?
I don't have a/c, so I haven't paid much attention to the a/c tuning...

jason

 

[webshot]

Not sure if rattle can was the best description. I saw a thread on pulling codes. I'll search for it. Also didnt notice if A/C shut off at WOT.

 

[HISSIN50]

Jason is right-on. The AC shuts off at ~3.71 TPS volts (WOT).

Regarding the rattle can (are we thinking detonation guys?), have you seen your operating temps go up with the AC on? Because the AC spits hot air into the radiator, it's normal to see operating temps go up 5-10*+.

You can kinda of infer a clue about the state of AC charge (if you dont have manifold gauges) by watching the compressor. Does the clutch disengage periodically or does the compressor run non-stop? If you rev the engine up and hold it (at say 2000-2500 RPM), does the clutch now evnetually disengage or stay constantly engaged? (In the time periods here, watch it for about 30 seconds. If it doesnt disengage in that time, there's a full charge in the system. Stop watching it or the underhood heat will make you cry. ).

Random thoughts.
Good luck.