Archived a/c clutch?

[3dracer]

I think the clutch on my a/c went south. I have been hearing a noise only when I shut it down once in a while. It sounded like a spring was violently vibrating. Well, today the day that I need my truck the most, when I was driving down the road, a heard it really loud. I turned OFF my a/c and it quit. Turned it back ON and, nothing. Turned it OFF and it now does it every time I turn it OFF. I looked under the truck while it was running and the plate on front of the a/c unit is turning weird, while screaming at me. It doesn't sound like the clutch, it sounds metallic. Like something is turning when it isn't supposed to be. I shut the truck down and the plate kept spinning and then stopped with the noise. I tried to grab ahold of it but it would not budge. Any ideas? THANK YOU



B. J. Deal

 

[B.G. Smith]

Clutch

The flex plate you are seeing (part of the clutch) is connected to the compressor shaft, if it is turning (backward) after you shut the truck off some valves in the compressor are worn out or broken. bg

 

[3dracer]

Clutch is broke

After looking at it today,, the A/C clutch has came apart. Lots of metallic cuttings and rust coming from clutch plate. Can this be changed without loosing the freon? Appears to be an easy fix if I don't lose the gas,,Thanks,,BJ

 

[B.G. Smith]

Clutch

Yes, the clutch can be changed without losing the refrigerant charge. Hope that solves you problem. bg

 

[3dracer]

What about buying a clutch. I can't get one anywhere but grom my dealer. $195 from them. Anywhere else maybe? Thanks again...

 

[3dracer]

also, what tools do I need to get it off? And is it that difficult? Maybe I should pay someone else to do it!?

 

[BudW]

To remove and replace the A/C Clutch takes about 1 hour to do and does not require removing the R-134a or the compressor, but according to my information, it does require 5 special tools to do it. It might worth it to find a local A/C shop to do the work, instead of investing in tools you won't use again.



Bud

 

[Stranger]

Watch it!!!

I just did the same thing. However I called "Polar Bear" (search for the number).

Whaat I was told was that if the pulley moved from side to side along with rotary, you've probably wiped out the "Nose cone" of the compressor which neccesitates a compressor rebuild as the new clutch and clutch coil will not reassemble properly.



Call them (Polar Bear, in FL; do a search) it might be worth your while.

 

[Stranger]

Watch it!!!

I just did the same thing. However I called "Polar Bear" (search for the number).

What I was told was that if the pulley moved from side to side along with rotary, you've probably wiped out the "Nose cone" of the compressor which neccesitates a compressor rebuild as the new clutch and clutch coil will not reassemble properly.



Call them (Polar Bear, in FL; do a search) it might be worth your while.

 

[Stranger]

Crap

All I wanted to do was delete one stinking letter and it results in a whole new freekin' post.

 

[3dracer]

the pulley is real firm in its location. It feels tight. That is convenient that it doesn't have to come off. I will see what I can do. I NEED MY TRUCK!!!!



Thanks, B. J. Deal

 

[B.G. Smith]

AC clutch

You will need a set of snap ring pliers, a metric socket and probably a bearing puller with a shield to go over the AC compressor shaft and small enough for the clutch bearing to pass over it. The socket is to remove the nut retaining the flex plate. The plate is usually not real tight and can be worked off with two screwdrivers. . Then remove the snap ring holding the clutch bearing in place. If the bearing is tight you will need a puller and a spacer for the puller center bolt to push on. (do not push on the compressor shaft) Some auto parts places have these tool to loan if you buy the parts from them. Installation is reverse of removal except the flex plate will come with some shims, install the correct amount of shim behind the flex plate to give the recommended clearance for the clutch(usually supplied with clutch). bg

 

[3dracer]

Great. I am going to get the clutch Monday. I have a friend that has the tools and we will do it this week. I thank you all for your help... It means so much to me! :{ But that is what this site is known for... B. J. Deal