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Old 05-13-2009, 01:33 PM   #1
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A/C clicking noise

The A/C unit in my 1972 airstream makes a rapid clicking noise as the compressor cycles. It blows very cold air but the noise is quite annoying. Any ideas?
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Old 05-13-2009, 05:07 PM   #2
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First thing to check are the fan blades. Sounds like something is hitting one of them. More than likely the condenser one since it is outside and things can get to it. This will not be an easy check since things are buried in there.
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Old 05-14-2009, 12:06 PM   #3
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It's an electronic noise, like something is clicking rapidly on and off. I can get the unit to make the noise by placing the thermostat close to ambient temperature and moving it just slightly
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Old 05-14-2009, 12:38 PM   #4
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It's an electronic noise, like something is clicking rapidly on and off. I can get the unit to make the noise by placing the thermostat close to ambient temperature and moving it just slightly
Sounds like it is one of the relays.

Could be low line voltage, if your using an extension cord.

Andy
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Old 05-14-2009, 01:05 PM   #5
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I have an Armstrong TR21-12. Can you suggest any checks that I can perform to confirm? BTW, this happens all the time regardless of extension cord use or not.
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Old 05-14-2009, 01:46 PM   #6
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I have an Armstrong TR21-12. Can you suggest any checks that I can perform to confirm? BTW, this happens all the time regardless of extension cord use or not.
The start and/or run capacitors, may be bad.

Andy
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Old 05-14-2009, 01:59 PM   #7
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Is there a service manual online?
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Old 05-14-2009, 02:04 PM   #8
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Is there a service manual online?
Not that I am aware of.

But, when you pull the cover that's hiding the capacitors, there usually is a schematic on the inside of that cover.

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Old 05-14-2009, 02:17 PM   #9
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Any thoughts on how I tell whether a capacitor or contactor is the bad component?
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Old 05-14-2009, 02:24 PM   #10
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Any thoughts on how I tell whether a capacitor or contactor is the bad component?
Looking won't tell unless they are burned up.

You must use ohm meter, or take them to an AC dealer to check.

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Old 05-14-2009, 02:31 PM   #11
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Arrow Armstrong Strong

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Originally Posted by Goldeneye View Post
Is there a service manual online?
There is one here on the forums
buried in a thread somewhere. I am not sure what models it covers but it covers several I think. I will find a link and post it here if someone else does not first.
ON EDIT:
Here it is. You will have to open both PDF files to put it in order. He saved odd pages and even pages in separate files.
I would print each (as I did) it is a wonderful free gift from Kevin. Invaluable if it covers your model. I hope it does.
>>>ARMSTRONG MANUAL LINK HERE>>>http://www.airforums.com/forums/show...35&postcount=1

Do not give up on your Armstrong unit. It is still a quality piece of machinery and almost every part is replaceable and available from one source or another.
Armstrong the company is long gone, but they built their units to last and to be serviced with common industry components for the most part.

It is sad how many of the things have been abandoned and LITERALLY tossed off the roof into the junk bin.
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Old 05-14-2009, 02:43 PM   #12
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Distant Drummer,

Thanks for the reply. There is no way I am giving up this unit. It is 37 years old and still keeps the trailer as cold as I want it. The clicking is annoying but does not prevent the unit from working. The one thing I'm concerned about is that it may be a small component like a contactor or capacitor that is bad and if I continue to let it operate in this mode it may result in a BIG problem like the compressor.
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Old 05-15-2009, 07:45 AM   #13
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Thanks for finding the manual. Once I investigate and find the problem I will post it.
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Old 05-15-2009, 09:18 AM   #14
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The Same Armstrong?

There is an Armstrong company making AC units and other products. The say that that they have been around since the late 1920's.

Whether it is the same company that made your AC unit is certainly a question, but you may want to check them out at:

Welcome to Armstrong Air Conditioning

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Old 05-15-2009, 11:34 AM   #15
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I think it is a remnant of the old company but with NO connection any longer. I called and they said they do get lots of inquiries for parts etc but have none nor any data or old literature etc. In fact the girl was not positive they were descendants of the same company.
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