a/c compressor or clutch ?

Just replaced broken sepentine belt, checked all pulleys turning, getting squeeling,rattling noise when ac turned on, is it the compressor or the ac clutch? If its the clutch how do you replace ac clutch on 98 taurus gl?

That's a very difficult decision based on the minimal details provided and not being able to experience the noise in person.

Does the squeal appear to be from the belt slipping? Does the air from the vents seem to get cold when the A/C is engaged, or is the noise so severe that you don't feel comfortable running it that long?

Did you replace the belt because of age, or did you replace it because it was prematurely worn? Are you sure the noise isn't from a self tensioner or idler pulley that is making noise when the extra load of the A/C compressor is applied?

-Rod

had to replace belt after 2yrs, 15-20k miles, noise gets louder when ac is turned on

ok, belt broke again after 75 miles, its gotta be the compressor pulley. Is it posible to get shorter belt and bypass the compressor without removing the compressor from the car, or is the compressor pulley in the way?