AC compressor noise

Hello all,

Here is a weird one. I have a 1998 Buick Century 3.1L V6. The AC still works very well but the compressor sounds like is has a loose rod bearing(even though it has no rod bearing). I have read that this can be caused by air in the system but I do not see how any could have gotten in there. It has a variable displacment type compressor that is rather expensive so I am hoping someone has some idea on how to stop this noise.

Thanks for any help.

Hello all,

Here is a weird one. I have a 1998 Buick Century 3.1L V6. The AC still works very well but the compressor sounds like is has a loose rod bearing(even though it has no rod bearing). I have read that this can be caused by air in the system but I do not see how any could have gotten in there. It has a variable displacment type compressor that is rather expensive so I am hoping someone has some idea on how to stop this noise.

Thanks for any help.
if any air got in the system it was because the refrigerant was low, if the noise of the compressor is has changes to it check the clutch in the compressor.

The Clutch seems fine. Engages and disengages freely. I look again just to be sure. The refrigerant level could be a little low I guess? No appearent leaks, still gets very cold so I would asume there is pressure > atmosphere. So how did the air get in? I hope it is air in the system (or anything simple) so a shop can just pump it down and refill it.

If i wasn't so expensive I would not mind changing the compressor, it is easy to get to.

Again thanks for any replies.

remember it is a pressurized system, so even if it leaks, air is not likey to get in easily. i would think the easyest way air could get in the system is improper servicing, not evacuating the system fully or a contaminated gauge set/equipment. if the sound is a whine, then i would look at the clutch/bearing, if it is more of a tapping noise, then it may be the reed valves(assuming the VD style has reed valves) i almost distoryed some reed valves one time by charging to fast and leting liquid refrigerent into the compressior.