Hey quick question guy. Does your a/c compressor kick on in the head/feet position? I was under the impression it only turns on when in a/c and defrost.

 

Yes for 95 and later Rangers.


AC compressor operation allowed:
Max AC
AC
Vent/Floor
Floor/Defrost
Defrost

AC compressor operation not allowed:
Vent only
Floor only
Off

 

What is the vent position?

 

Arrow in your face. AKA 'vent' or 'panel'.

 

Or face lol. Oh ok i remember reading my manual but it was a while back and i only have a pdf version. Couldnt remember. Thats too bad cuz sometimes my ac draws
Too much power and to have on while u have heat on ismt worth it to me

 

Mod it with an ON/OFF switch. It's easy. What year is your truck?

 

Ya i was thinking of that too. Its a 99. Apparently its not
Coming trough the floor anyways when on the vent/floor setting.

 

There is a purple wire from the HVAC controls that tells the PCM when to allow compressor operation. Using a simple SPST (on/off) switch to interrupt that purple wire allows manual compressor defeat whenever the driver wants it.

When used on a regular basis, A/C systems tend to leak less and build up less moisture and odor. That's why Ford has the compressor running in so many modes. If an owner chooses to do this mod, it is a good idea to make a point of running the compressor now and then to keep the seals and moving parts lubricated.

 

better mpg with compressor off?

 

Yes.

However, if you open the windows instead, your fuel economy will be reduced due to aerodynamic drag and that will partially or completely negate the savings from having the compressor turned off. Best MPG scenario is windows up AND compressor off.