Section 2 (HVAC System): Operation: Compressor
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1998 Mercury Tracer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The Ford FS-10 10-cylinder compressor has 5 double-acting pistons, positioned axially around compressor shaft. Pistons are actuated by a swashplate pressed onto compressor shaft. Swashplate uses shaft rotation to provide a reciprocating drive force to each of the pistons. This drive force is applied through balls and shoes to midpoint of each piston.