Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Can I use a non a/c belt to bypass the compressor?

[VicR]

On the verge of a 1100 mile trip in 3 days and notice that the pulley on the compressor in wobbling. I am thinking of just bypassing it with a non-a/c belt and dealing with it when I get home. Any downside to that? I know I won't have a/c or defrost, but I can live without those for this trip.



I had the compressor replaced last year and it was a non OEM replacement, so I suspect it will be an r & r when I get back... .



Thanks,



-Vic

 

[BHanna]

I think it'll work. I checked the diagram in the service manual for my 2004 and it looks like all the other accessories are in the same place. It could be a little different on a 99 though.

 

[VicR]

I found old one post on another board where a guy with an 01 said it worked for him... and surprisingly Napa had the non a/c belt in stock, so I'm going to give it a try this PM. I'll post the results.



-Vic

 

[PSpychalski]

One of the older TDR mag has an article about that. Check Issues 44-47.

 

[CstlEng]

I have a 99 and have done what you are asking about. It worked fine, just follow the non AC-routing diagram.

 

[VicR]

It seems to be working. I used a NAPA belt NBH25080653. I seem to recall now reading somewhere that the non a/c belt was recommended for the boonie box because it could replace a bad belt or bypass a bad compressor. Anyway, I'll post back after the trip if there is some surprise using it.



-Vic

 

[VicR]

Trip went fine and this belt did the trick for 1300 miles. -Vic