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.
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