Modifying the AC control on an Escape Hybrid

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#11

05-29-2007, 02:40 PM

salsbr

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Join Date: Oct 2004

Location: Denver Area, CO

Posts: 155

Re: Modifying the AC control on an Escape Hybrid

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tim K

I think I understand the concept, but to clarify.....this is really an override button for the computer's programming with regard to the input selector of the climate control. In other words, you can now turn the dial to DEFROST and blow air out of the upper vents without forcing the engine and compressor on? If you choose defrost with the AC button on GREEN, air will blow but no engine/no compressor. If you choose defrost with the AC button on RED, the ICE will run and the compressor will chill the air.

Yes, exactly. I can now turn on the AC an any position. And I can select either the Econ mode where the engine will shut off, or the Normal mode where the engine will remain on. I can also turn the vents to any position and choose to have no AC running.

Quote:

Originally Posted by denverjay

Care to share with us how much time you put into it?

It's a bit hard to tell since I did the switch graphic last fall, but then moved. If I had to guess, it would probably be about 20 hrs. If I had to do it again, it would be more like 5.

#12

05-29-2007, 03:25 PM

c0ugar69

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Join Date: May 2007

Posts: 52

Re: Modifying the AC control on an Escape Hybrid

So how much for the KIT???

#13

05-29-2007, 04:27 PM

DavidH

2008 Escape Hybrid Owner

Join Date: Mar 2007

Location: San Diego, California, USA

Posts: 280

Re: Modifying the AC control on an Escape Hybrid

Quote:

Originally Posted by salsbr

My former vehicle was an Acura Integra, and although the windshield definitely cleared quicker with AC, I would keep it clear with normal vent. It worked fine for me.

Defrost without A/C works when the outside temp is low. Defrost without A/C is poor when the outside temp is high.

#14

05-29-2007, 06:16 PM

Duc

Stock Sucks

Join Date: May 2005

Location: Kingsland, TX

Posts: 236

Re: Modifying the AC control on an Escape Hybrid

Dude you are a freakin genius! My HCH had a a/c button and I loved how when I was climbing a hill, passing, etc I could reach down and push it. I turn the **** on my FEH but it is no where near as convenient and (as you know) very limited as to where you can use a/c (either face or defrost).
Awesome job and I to would like info on a kit if you decide to build anymore.
Clif

#15

05-29-2007, 09:45 PM

wwest

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Join Date: Sep 2006

Location: Beautiful Pacific NW

Posts: 1,678

Re: Modifying the AC control on an Escape Hybrid

Hmmmm...

And all I did was add a small toggle switch inside the console glove box that opens the A/C compressor clutch relay circuit.

But bottom line it is ALWAYS best to rely on heated airflow FIRST and FOREMOST to remove fogging and/or heating the windshield to keep it well above dewpoint. The A/C is only reliable for this purpose provided the atmospheric dewpoint is well above 32F. The A/C can be of no assistance whatsoever as the OAT nears or declones below freezing.

#16

05-30-2007, 04:37 AM

WaltPA

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Location: Lehigh Valley, PA

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Re: Modifying the AC control on an Escape Hybrid

Quote:

Originally Posted by wwest

The A/C is only reliable for this purpose provided the atmospheric dewpoint is well above 32F. The A/C can be of no assistance whatsoever as the OAT nears or declones below freezing.

I believe that is why the A/C is already automatically disabled, by design, when the outside air temp gets near freezing.

#17

05-30-2007, 04:42 AM

WaltPA

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Location: Lehigh Valley, PA

Posts: 1,197

Re: Modifying the AC control on an Escape Hybrid

Quote:

Originally Posted by DavidH

Defrost without A/C is poor when the outside temp is high.

Exactly. The warm-moist-air condensing on the outside of the windshield, can be handled by the wipers. The warm-moist-air condensing on the inside of the windshield is a problem, and only gets worse by blowing even more warm-moist-air at it. One really needs the A/C to dry out the air first, before blowing it at the windshield.

Besides, when it is already hot and muggy inside the car, the last thing one wants, is more heat! So, one always puts the temp level/**** at its coldest setting.