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This post does not relate to my problem so only read this if you wonder why we have variable output a/c compressors instead of an a/c compressor with a clutch and you want to know the difference.
First an a/c compressor with a clutch. The clutch turns on and off the compressor as needed. When the compressor is on it is outputting at 100 % when off the compressor outputs 0 %. Your a/c compressor would be turned on many times each hour as you drive your vehicle. This is relatively inefficient and why variable output compressors were built.
A variable output a/c compressor runs all the time and the output is controlled by a solenoid valve that can vary the compressor output from 0 to 100 % and anywhere in between. On very hot days or when you start your car when it has been sitting in the sun the compressor is putting out 100%. As your car cools down, the compressor output is reduced an may only be putting out 30 or 40 % on cooler days or overcast days. This is more efficient and provides a constant load on your car engine.
One advantage of the variable output compressor is that it can easily be turned off during times of high acceleration to allow more engine power to be used to accelerate your car instead of being used to cool your car.
A second advantage is that the load on your car engine stays more constant instead of the load being turned on and off and on and off like a clutched a/c compressor does. This improves MPG.
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