On my mom's 96 855GLT, I just noticed today that the ac compressor goes on for about 7-10 sec, then shuts down.. then turns back on ina few sec. the AC blows really cold in the car, but this issue makes me wonder??? Is the system low on r134a and it keeps triggering the low pressure switch? How much does it cost to have this fixed? Is this normal?

Kevin

Chris' advice is good, but there's about a 99% chance that your R-134 is low because you have a leak in the evaporator coil. Almost everyone on this board who has experienced the problem reports temporary success in recharging the system, either professionally, or DIY. (Yes, the pro way is best, but you can restore very good function yourself). Unfortunately, the evaporator leak will get worse, not better, and someday you will be faced with the major expense of replacing it (<$1000).

Gerald C

That question has been asked here quite a few times. If the system is blowing cold under variable conditions (slow and high speed, city or highway), that behavior is fine. The important thing is output temperature.

In your area, the weather hasn't been that hot. This affects cycle time greatly. If the compressor cycles frequently in high temperatures, and the vent output increases significantly in temperature, it is time for some A/C work.

A/C service in WI is expensive because of the additional state regulations (on top of federal regs). With an R134a system, refrigerant measurement is crucial. Either that, or you have to measure pressures, and the 850 doesn't have a high side port to test, that I've seen. That means you have to measure the refrigerant that goes into it. Which means, just topping off the system is no longer a possibility--R134a is too sensitive to pressures.

Monitor the output temp with a good vent temp gauge that displays degrees F. That will help you to determine whether or not there is an actual charge level problem, or if the system is in fact operating properly.
--
Chris Herbst, near Chicago.