A/C temp control switch failure/breakage...

While removing the centre console of my 1975 308 GT4, the capillary tube for the A/C temperature control switch broke off the switch, right at the point where it attaches to it. It appears that it was probably fractured quite some time ago, because it fell off with the slightest of my touch of it.

I have three questions:

1) Since this capillary tube looks to be sealed, does it contain anything hazardous like mercury that I should be worried about? I looked closely and did not see any metallic fluid in this tube, or any remnants on the floor under this console.

2) I know well enough that this is NOT a Ferrari specific part, and considering the compressor is a York type and that many threads have been posted here of people finding A/C parts at NAPA, is this switch likely from a U.S. manufacturer too and thus, could it be sourced through NAPA, or other parts suppliers? The markings on the sides of the switch read:

"Ranco Slenderstat 6(6)A 250V ~"

and:

"A50-L2357 30-75-1L K"

3) To what device does this capillary tube attach to on the other end, the expansion valve or the pressure switch?"

I should add that I have bench-tested the compressor before and I know the clutch engages, but while the car was running, when I turned the A/C switch on, it wouldn't engage. Does the fact that (before it broke off today) the tube being fractured would cause the A/C system not to work? I checked for continuity across the switch's contacts and nothing registers on my voltmeter when I rotate the knob.

 

Thanks guys.

When I came home from work today, I dug a little deeper in the front compartment and found out where this tube ended... It was tucked under a clip which was attached to one of the tubes of the evaporator. There was another capillary tube beside this one, copper coloured and tightly coiled - sensory tube for the expansion valve from what I can tell. The whole lot was covered in a sticky, black insulating tape.

This evening I did some investigating online through various Ferrari parts supplier catalogues and the switch itself seems to be NLA (big surprise) and what is being offered is a kit of a switch (same one?), dryer and filter (P/N: 95320033. Dennis McCann listed it being for the 328) for not less than $760... Ouch...

In regards to the clutch not engaging, there is no refrigerant in the system yet, so I guess that explains that.

So you both suggest jumping this console switch. I suppose that means directly connecting the two wires together. Wouldn't that make the A/C run all the time? Or should I open this switch up and disconnect the capillary-tube portion from it? I know it's broken, but I would not like to hack up this switch. I'd only consider that as a last option.

After I made this initial posting, I did some Googling of "Ranco" and it appears they're still in business, but their switches seem more for HVAC systems of homes/buildings.

The search continues...

 

Thanks...