99 Cadillac DeVille Air Conditioner

I recently experienced fault code B-1347 (Low Refrigerant - A/C Off) in the
subject car. The code was reset and the A/C worked normally for several
days and then the B-1347 code returned. Clearing the code again returned
the system to normal operation for several more days. A check of the
low-side pressure indicated 38 psi (normal) but I noticed a noise eminating
from the accumulator when the a/c was operating. Placing my hand on the
accumulator substantially quietened the noise but the noise returned as soon
as my hand was removed.

Since the refrigerant level is normal, a defective low-pressure switch would
appear to be the culprit. However, I don't understand the noise at the
accumulator.

Is it possible for an accumulator malfunction to cause code B-1347 to set?
Has anyone else experienced this type of problem and what did you find to be
the root cause?

Ray

I still get a single loud thud when the a/c is turned on after it has been
off for an extended period ( a couple of days). Even though the low
pressure reading is normal (indicating adequate level of freon) the output
air into the car when the temp control is set to 60 degrees is only slightly
cool suggesting some type of restriction to the gas flow.

The original accumulator part number is 1132695 but that has been replaced
by part number 88968517.

Can anyone tell me if the accumulator was replaced because of a higher than
normal internal failure rate?

Has anyone experienced this type of resounding thud internal at the
accumulator when the a/c is turned on?

Ray