 The idea behind this mod is to be able to control
the A/C Compressor with a single switch. This duplicates the blue
"A/C" switch that is found in many automobiles. You can then leave
the A/C control in the MAX position, and re-circulate chilled air
without running the compressor. Basically, this mod will cut circuit
348 (A/C demand signal) which tells the PCM (Powertrain Control
Module) that the A/C control panel is in a selection that uses the
A/C compressor. This mod does not interfere with the PCM, it just
interrupts the signal send from the A/C panel.
This procedure was researched using the Ford service CD and has
been verified by technicians who work at Ford dealerships.
| To start,
you must remove the center panel in the dash. You begin by
removing the two screws above the A/C control panel. Then,
get your fingernails behind the panel and pull forward. It
will slide out towards the rear of the truck. | |
| To remove the panel, you
disconnect: The radio (red connector), Antenna (silver
banana plug), Cig Lighter (two connectors on left), Aux 12
volt power plug (connector on right). If you have fog
lights, there is an additional connector on the right
side. | |
| Here's the
Ford diagram of all the wires with the entire dash apart.
The connector you are after is 294A. It has 4 wires in it,
it's red, and it connects behind the A/C panel. It's a
little right of the center | |
| This is Connector 294A
under the antenna plug. Use a screwdriver to release the
catch. The violet (purple) colored wire on top is the one
we will cut for adding the switch. I added two short wires
with spade connectors to make it easier. | |
| This is the
Ford chart for connector 294A. The A/C demand circuit is
where we add the switch. This will interrupt circuit 348,
which tells the PCM to turn on the compressor. Cut the
Violet wire and add your switch. | |
| I installed
my switch above the Cig Lighter using an existing mounting
spot. To get the area flush, I first cut off the raised
plastic mounting box area. | |
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| I next used
my dremel to cut and smooth the area, so my switch will
fit flush. Then drill the proper size hole and install the
switch. I used a metal one from Home Depot after my
plastic Radio Shack one broke it's nut. | |
| Now put the
panel back, making sure the radio slides into it's rail.
Reconnect the radio and other connectors. Connect the new
switch (I used spade connectors). Replace the screws over
the A/C control panel. | |
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