Why is the AC compressor wire coiled?

[Michael]

I had my compressor replaced the other day and I was wondering why the red compressor wire was coiled on the factory cars. Does it have to be a certain length and coiling it is just a dressy way to shorten the run or is there something more to it, or less?

[David T]

I had my compressor replaced the other day and I was wondering why the red compressor wire was coiled on the factory cars. Does it have to be a certain length and coiling it is just a dressy way to shorten the run or is there something more to it, or less?

It is only for cosmetic purposes and to prevent it from getting caught anywhere. It has nothing to do with anything electrical.

[Spittybug]

David's lying because he doesn't want you to know that the coiling is absolutely necessary in order to not tear a hole in the fabric of the space time continuum...and don't forget to push "the button" every 24 hours...

[David T]

David's lying because he doesn't want you to know that the coiling is absolutely necessary in order to not tear a hole in the fabric of the space time continuum...and don't forget to push "the button" every 24 hours...

Are you referring to the "Easy" button?

[Michael]

Thanks. I'm going to coil mine back to the factory look because if there is one thing I can't stand, it's a non factory looking engine bay.

[Bitsyncmaster]

That coil is about the first thing I saw when I finally found out how to open the engine cover (drove it home not knowing anything about the car).

The coil is probably just to take up the slack in the wire. So I did the same thing when I installed a new AC compressor.

[Citizen]

I have always wondered this very question. Thanks for not being so shy as to ask.

Now, about that freak-sensor on the left-side of the block, near the CAT....

Thomas

...

[vwdmc16]

First time I saw the engine bay of a D when I was 6 or 7 I didnt like that spiral wire, It has bothered me since. I updated the look on my car.

You can see it in the corner:

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c396/vwdmc16/DMC2/IMG_1170_zps5b61a013.jpg