Hi guys;
Many thanks for the replies!
The ambient temperature up here (at time of testing) was 8c. According to Mitchell the system won't engage at 0 or below. The instrument cluster shows the ambient temperature and was also reading 8c - it's accurate as we cleaned and tested those two thermistors so ambient temperature should not be an issue.
With regards to the compressor operating in the shop - we haven't yet tested to see if it will operate if the RPM is higher (such as 2,000 RPM). That's on our list of things to check - thank you for bringing it up - it's a valid point.
With regards to the compressor - it's a 100% new Volvo part. Not used, not reman, not another brand - it's new Volvo.
R134a is the refrigerant used - specifically 26.4 ounces. The system is hermetically sealed - it's as new or better.
The issue must be electrical or ECC or something along those lines. As soon as I get a chance we'll test for compressor operation at above idle in the shop and will post back the results.
Thank you both for your replies - they are shedding light on aspects of the job and causing us to think in new ways
