ok we have a firebird with a v8. and it runs really well until you turn the a/c

  • Thread starter Thread starter rachel l
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rachel l

on and then it over heats? WHY just wondering what could make a car over heat when the a/c comes on when it runs cold otherwise
 
3 things to check ,if the thermostat is stuck open , if the fan clutch is weak, or the water pump is weak. ps if your in Florida bugs clogging the air flow.
 
Suggest to check that the radiator fan is working - if it's an electric fan, should be on when the A/C is running - if it's an engine driven fan, make sure the clutch is in good shape. Either way, should be good airflow whenever the A/C is on.

Making sure the condenser coil is clean is another check - as the previous poster mentions - make sure the bugs are cleared out.

If you have a coolant temperature gauge, it will likely show a little hotter with the A/C on, but should not be to the point of overheating.
 
Also make sure the deflector (air dam) is intact at the front of the radiator (under the radiator support) without that in place the air is Not directed into the radiator and can cause overheating with the A/C on.. but have just enough cooling with it off.
 
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