Mystery Part

[Brabus3.6]

Hello all,

Today I decided it was about time to sort out the air conditioning so I had it pressure checked and filled. I was told all was well which I was very happy and surprised about as the air con hasn't worked for 2 years+ so I assumed the previous owner had major problems with it. 10 miles, while leaving the car running so my nan could enjoy the cool fresh air while I picked up some parts, I smelt something burning. I opened the bonnet to find the plastic surrounding the mystery part in the picture melting away. I assume this is air con related as it's only happened today with the air con fixed. Does anybody know what it is?
Cheers

 

[guydewdney]

it looks like a ballast resistor to me.. maybe for the fan? any part numbers on it?

guy

 

[Brabus3.6]

Thanks for the quick reply guy. The part number is hard to see as the plastic case has melted and deformed but looks like "0001883545" the "883" is particularly undefined and so could well be something else. Any help?

 

[Brabus3.6]

Found

Guy was right, it is a ceramic resistor for the dual-fans for the air conditioning (and engine overheat). Dealers identified the part which has part number 0001583245. It's on order now, will be changed on Friday. Thanks for your help.

 

[marcos]

Quite a common problem I believe

 

[DrNick]

Yes but a resistor melting is usually due to excessive current ie a short circuit somewhere else. You need to check you are fixing the cause and not the symptom. In this case it would be good to view one or other of the fans with suspicion. Get them to order 2 resistors in case there is a bigger problem and the new resistor goes the same way as the first!

 

[Brabus3.6]

Thanks for your concern DrNick! It seems that the old resistor has stopped melting (new one arrives friday). I'm assuming the resistor that because the resistor hasn't been used for a couple of years at least, it's packed up and can't take the full current draw that happens when engine is hot AND air conditioning is on. Only time will tell though.

 

[pepper&boulou]

Quite a common problem I believe

I had a similar problem when I took the caravan out for the first time this year, only it was the brake conecter in the boot that melted.