A/C not running as cool as it did last year

[Rossodio]

Hey guys,

I have a 1987 325, and I have a new problem. The A/C now takes longer to get cool than it has in years past, and markedly so. It can still get pretty cool if it is under 85 degrees or so outside, but unlike every summer before this, it now can't blow much cooler than outside air if it's above around 85 degrees. The freon level is fine, and the A/C is definitely working to some degree, since it's able to cool air when it's not so hot outside... so my question is this - is there any kind of valve or switch or whatnot that I might be able to make the A/C cooler with? I just want to be able to drive around when it's 90 degrees outside and not leave the car in a sweaty mess. Any help you can provide would be great

- Ross Michels
Charleston, SC, USA

[Markey]

When was it last re-gassed ?

[Ant]

given that the freon level is OK, and the function is OK unless V hot I'd suggest checking to see if the condensor fan is working, if its making lower than stock rpms/no rpms the duty of the A/C will be reduced quite considerably

HTH

[AndrewL]

Measure the temp immediately where the cold air comes out of the grills. It should be 4 degrees Centigrade (that's around 40 degreees Fahrenheit). If it's working to some extent but the temps just too high the usual reason is loss of refridgerant. Are you sure you are checking the correct fluid level?

Andy