I have an interesting dilemma. I have the 2003 2.3 liter ranger. I had problems with the AC, but after some advice here I changed the orifice tube drier etc.
After everything was done (new rings, proper vacuum etc.) I started the AC and perfect. Nice and cold. However, the compressor is cycling on and off, and when off, there is no AC. I thought maybe a leak, but it is holding pressure, and when the compressor is working, I check the pressure and it is exactly where it is supposed to be, so no leak in the system.

What would cause the compressor to shut off, cycle on, then off. It will stay on either on or off for an extended time. (I drive it today.. cold AC the whole trip, I drive it tomorrow, it never comes on.. OR in one trip back and forth, on off on off)

 

Could be failing pressure switch

AC systems have 2 pressure switches, high pressure switch and low pressure switch, these prevent damage to compressor and fittings

In 2003 the pressure switches provide the GROUND for the computer to use to activate the AC Relay

Computer Pin 86-----------(black/yellow wire)------------------cycling switch---------------(red/yellow wire)-----------------------high pressure switch--------------(black/white wire)---------------Ground

So if pressure is OK in the system the computer gets the Ground at pin 86, if either switch "opens" then no ground and no AC compressor
The pressure switches can be changed without draining the system

To test if a pressure switch is causing the problem, unplug its connector, put in a jumper wire to connect the 2 wires together and then run the system that way for a day or so
Only do ONE SWITCH at a time, for obvious reason lol, if cycling problem goes away then replace that one switch.

I am assuming your pressure checks were done correctly and that pressure is not the actual issue