On Sat, 20 Sep 2003 22:08:35 UTC, Dave Plowman
wrote:

We had a Ford Galaxy, that had a similar warning in the handbook, just
before we sold it, we found out why.

There's an electromagnetic clutch between the pulley and the compressor -
so the actual compressor doesn't turn when not in use. It also cycles when
in use. So whatever seized was to do with the clutch.

My old Rover has a clever idea to make sure the AC is used - it switches
it on when you go to defrost, so will get used throughout the winter.

My (recent) Galaxy has that too...all electronically controlled...!

--
Bob Eager
rde at tavi.co.uk
PC Server 325*4; PS/2s 9585, 8595, 9595*2, 8580*3,
P70...