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I am considering installing a solenoid to increase the idle rpm when the AC compressor kicks in.
Many reviews report about solenoids that lack power to overcome the throttle spring force. See the reviews about this one from Summit https://www.summitracing.com/int/par...-8059/reviews/
I rewired my AC system to keep the solenoid on when I turn the AC on. The idle is a little higher when the compressor cycles, but its better than having to blip the throttle every time the compressor turns on.
I've use this on a couple of time with no problems. If you have extra strong springs on your linkage will NOT overcome. Normal spring seems to work ok.
I rewired my AC system to keep the solenoid on when I turn the AC on. The idle is a little higher when the compressor cycles, but its better than having to blip the throttle every time the compressor turns on.
you mean the solenoid is on even if the compressor is not?
I have that solenoid on my 66 with a Holley. It works well but, you must blip the throttle as the A/C compressor cycles on. The solenoid does not have the power to push the throttle back, but it will keep the throttle advanced for the cycle. You can do a search for NOS solenoids, there are vendors selling original units. Jerry
I have that solenoid on my 66 with a Holley. It works well but, you must blip the throttle as the A/C compressor cycles on. The solenoid does not have the power to push the throttle back, but it will keep the throttle advanced for the cycle. You can do a search for NOS solenoids, there are vendors selling original units. Jerry
My exact experience....none of those dinky solenoids will bump up the idle without help. When you think about it they would have to apply more pressure than what you provide with your foot when you push the accelerator pedal. That's prob more effort than you would think
I tried it on my FI, and the same problem with as with a carburetor; the solenoid will NOT overcome the spring...; you have to set the solenoid before lifting the accelerator.
what is the end to end throw of the solenoid pusher arm? To get 200rpm more on the motor, only very little push is needed on the carb lever. Assuming the solenoid arm has more throw than needed, it should be possible to add an intermediate 2 to 1 lever (or any other ratio) that 'gears' the solenoid pusher arm so the force is much higher?
Last edited by alexandervdr; 03-18-2017 at 03:20 PM.
what is the end to end throw of the solenoid pusher arm? To get 200rpm more on the motor, only very little push is needed on the carb lever. Assuming the solenoid arm has more throw than needed, it should be possible to add an intermediate 2 to 1 lever (or any other ratio) that 'gears' the solenoid pusher arm so the force is much higher?
as they say, the impossible only takes a little bit longer; so it is possible, i'm just not sure how...
possibly a longer accelerator linkage lever to increase the mechanical advantage, but the solenoid mounting point would be a problem (and ugly)
or some combination lever system as you suggest
or a stronger solenoid, if available.. may be the best solution. remember, cruise control systems are able to overcome spring problems... BRAIN FART: with a relay and a servo, that would work...
my personal solution is EFI which maintains idle rpms to whatever I set it at under any circumstances/loads. the BIG problem is space... it's hard enough to cram stuff in the spaces available...
Bill
Last edited by wmf62; 03-18-2017 at 04:15 PM.
Reason: Brain Fart....
Just know, you can "over engineer" something until IT becomes the problem and another failure point...
not this one...; with the right parts, this is a no-brainer.... if my pea-brain can visualize this, John could whip it up in his sleep... (and so can other electrical geniuses....)
Bill
Just know, you can "over engineer" something until IT becomes the problem and another failure point...
You are right. The reason I started the tread is that I did not want to undertake the installation if it only works so and so. My right foot can add 200rpm too
Another one on my list is cruise control, I don't think it's wise to add both systems
You are right. The reason I started the tread is that I did not want to undertake the installation if it only works so and so. My right foot can add 200rpm too
Another one on my list is cruise control, I don't think it's wise to add both systems
I have cruise control... next best thing to a/c...
the 2 could be compatible, but they would be fighting for space...
you mean the solenoid is on even if the compressor is not?
I THINK he is saying that the solenoid is constantly on only when the a/c is switched on and the solenoid does not cycle when the compressor clutch energizes/de-energizes. when the a/c is turned off, idle returns to normal.
this will work, just a 200rpm (or whatever you chose) idle above non-a/c idle.
I could live with that, and not have to do the 'foot tap'...
I THINK he is saying that the solenoid is constantly on only when the a/c is switched on and the solenoid does not cycle when the compressor clutch energizes/de-energizes. when the a/c is turned off, idle returns to normal.
this will work, just a 200rpm (or whatever you chose) idle above non-a/c idle.
I could live with that, and not have to do the 'foot tap'...
Bill
Yes, that's a good explanation on how my system works.
03-18-2017, 09:32 AM
A/C idle solenoid
