WOT A/C Cutout Switch?

[85 Cutlass Brougham]

I have been thinking about this for the last few days. The 442 Cutlass had a WOT cutout switch for the A/C compressor, but other models of Cutlass did not. The reason I suspect is to safeguard the compressor due to the higher WOT upshift speed of the performance TH200 4R transmissions. Now, if the compressor cannot handle the higher engine speeds (5,000 RPM vs 3,000 RPM for the base), then it would be a good idea to add a WOT cutout to any car with either a manual swap or a modded transmission with the higher than stock upshift. Since I am planning doing one or the other to my transmission, I have to wonder if there is another car I can source that GM cutout switch from? From the diagram in the service manual it is located on the gas pedal assembly inside the car. Did the Monte Carlo SS use the same sort of switch? How about the Camaro with a manual transmission? I would just go order one for a 23 year old 442, but I kinda doubt the dealer would still have it in stock, or available at all. Any ideas would be welcome.

 

[Blake442]

You can have the one I pulled out of my 442... I don't know where all the wires are, but I have the switch and the plug in for it.

 

[joe_padavano]

I have been thinking about this for the last few days. The 442 Cutlass had a WOT cutout switch for the A/C compressor, but other models of Cutlass did not.

All models of the Cutlass had some form of A/C compressor cutout at WOT. Some used the switch, some used the computer (which used the TPS on the carb). Prior to about 1985, all used the switch (as did the Custom Cruiser B-body wagon). The transition to computer control was phased in. VIN Y cars got it first, then V6, then VIN 9.

 

[SLICK79WGN]

all 4cyl s10's had them as well

 

[85 Cutlass Brougham]

You can have the one I pulled out of my 442... I don't know where all the wires are, but I have the switch and the plug in for it.

Thanks. I will be in touch if I don't see one next time I go to the junk yard.

 

[megaladon6]

the cutoff switch is a standard thing. it's not to protect the compressor but to provide max power at WOT and to reduce emissions slightly.

 

[SS402]

the cutoff switch is a standard thing. it's not to protect the compressor but to provide max power at WOT and to reduce emissions slightly.

true, but thats not a bad idea..