In my 1997 850R, the A/C compressor is constantly cycling on and off. I thought it needed a recharge, so I bought a kit that included a pressure gauge.

I put the gauge on and watched the pressure reading. With the compressor off the pressure was at 25psi. When the compressor engaged the psi rose to 45psi and then kicked off, falling back down to 25psi. This cycle continued on and on.

25psi was the lowest acceptable pressure reading given the ambient temp of 52 degrees. (as shown on a chart with the instructions)

Any ideas on why the constant pressure fluctuations? Do I just need to add some r134a and see what it does?

Thanks