1984 A/C Wiring Variations ?

[Bill B.]

In troubleshooting my A/C clutch engagement problem, appears to me that there were two different wiring configurations for the HI PRESSURE SWITCH (2-WIRE OR 3-WIRE). And, correspondingly, there would have been two different wiring configurations for the A/C "ON" signal to the ECM. Specifically, if you have a 2-wire A/C Hi press connector, the A/C "ON" signal to ECM originates behind the A/C interior control panel (2-wire, pin "C", A/C Control Switch). If you have a 3-wire A/C Hi press connector, the A/C "ON" signal to ECM runs from the Hi press switch, to the battery side bulk head connector, and then through the main interior harness directly to the ECM. And, the pin "C" in this case is only 1-wire which had nothing to do with ECM circuit.

Anyone know if I really know what I am talking about? Is this situation supported in our 84 documentation and/or is it known or factual? Something like this of any importance to 84 Judging Folks (assuming I am not full of something)? Or, did I just rediscover America after Columbus?

[Bill B.]

Re: 1984 A/C Wiring Variations ?

Just an aside since I am sure that this A/C wiring issue won't change the rotation of the earth. Thought I would check recalls on the 84 about the A/C wiring. Wasn't anything. Surprised me to find couple issues "may cause loss of control or crash" or words to that affect. Things like missing weld on wheel center--wheel may separate, etc! My cruise control servo is still in forward bumper area too. If these defects were never corrected during previous ownerships, does Chevrolet still honor the recalls? Also, did they publish a list of service bullentins or anything else of this nature.

[John D.]

Re: 1984 A/C Wiring Variations ?

Bill,The 84's are a nightmare to judge and to learn.As you know the car was made for two years. Constantly being changed during that time. My May 83 has the cruise control servo near the hood latch-right on top of the battery. Makes it all the harder to change the battery. I do believe that you can take your car to a Chevrolet dealer and he will be able to tell you if the recalls were ever done to it. Is so I do believe they may honor those recalls but don't rely on us for that info as it may not be accurate.
Just run over the local Chev garage with your serial number in hand.
As far as the manual goes a manual would have to be a foot thick to cover the 83-84 years. Tough car. My May 83 car was used extensively to create or write the first C4 manual ever. Tom Barr and others made numerous trips to my house and often said to me. This car of yours certainly doesn't look like a lot of true 84's they have seen. One day I was told my car was missing the trim tag. I laughed and said is that right. I said it's there but I ain't telling you where. Finally I said. "Give up" Then they said well I'll be damned. It's on the passenger side hood latch. Later '84's just have the two rivet holes there and the tag is elsewhere.
If you are going to own an 83-84 and have it judged you have to be very congenial as I am as it's a learning process. It will take years as there were over 50,000 made and it's hard to find two alike. John D.

[Bill B.]

Re: 1984 A/C Wiring Variations ?

John, I actually enjoyed your response very much as it only confirmed what I figured I know. Some might suspect that everything is a big deal to me? Nothing could be further from the truth. I just like to know what is right even if I cannot make mine right and multiple conflicting sources just run me in a circle. Regarding the recall stuff, just kinda wanted a "snake-in-the-grass" peak before I go struggle with my local chevy house--they can never find a part until Joe Lucia gives one and you go back and give it to them--thousand times, "OH! Howdya dude that buddie". I hate it!!!!!!!! Anyway, the service manager is about 1 octave less helpful. Nice guys, just . . .

Regarding judging, think that someday that might be a good experience. I cannot imagine trying to really, really, really judge one of these. The obivous is easy. I can picture getting my 58 or the 72 back like "from the factory". But, if I move my cruise control as a safety recall requires it wouldn't be "original". Silly example but judging could turn out to be a "lick and promise" on these wire wizzard nightmares. I wrote that having very, very, very much respect for the judges. Being a judge cannot be easy and you have to put up with judgee's falling all over their feet. Now that would get old.

Enough, I actually like the era more than my old ones and they are such a pleasure to drive. Worst part is I have an 88 4+3 convertible and 90 coupe 6-spd. My wife bless her heart just lets me go--she is my second wife.

So, thanks for note. Back to garage so I can get the A/C running so I can go to Vehicle Registration and State Inspection monday. I really do take this seriously but not at the expense of having fun.