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Old 11-17-2020, 01:51 PM   #16
HO455
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Location: Portland Oregon
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Re: Value of compressor clutch flyback diode

Quote:
Originally Posted by RustyPile View Post
The collapsing field of the clutch winding when the power is removed can get pretty strong, producing a pretty good voltage spike, referred to as Peak Inverse Voltage, or PIV for short.. I've never measured that spike but it probably exceeds 100 volts.. A 1N4004 is a 1 amp 600 PIV diode.. A 1N5402 is a 3 amp 200 PIV diode.. A 1N4007 is a 2.5 amp 1000 PIV diode.. A 1N5408 is a 3 amp 1000 PIV diode.. Any one of these diodes will work just fine....
RustyPile has posted good information. The function of the diode doesn't require it to be a specific value. I would bet that GM installed the diode to prevent warranty issues, so cost and not specifications decided which one they used. It is likely the diode installed in the harnesses changed over the years due to cost reasons.
You could try contacting one of the aftermarket wiring harness manufacturers for their recommendation if you want more specific information
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