1996 Taurus Compressor

My air compressor has come loose from the engine. The air conditioner system is still working. I have been told by one mechanic that the cost to repair will be about $1200. My question is, why can't the compressor just be bolted back on the engine without being replaced since it is still working properly?:banghead:

My air compressor has come loose from the engine. The air conditioner system is still working. I have been told by one mechanic that the cost to repair will be about $1200. My question is, why can't the compressor just be bolted back on the engine without being replaced since it is still working properly?:banghead:

Welcome to your first post on AF.
That is a good question about bolting it back on.
First thing would to find out what came lose or broke.
For 1200$ I would get a second opinion on it.
Let us know how it goes.
Find a good repair shop tips.

Check around Ask around
Word of mouth.
Family friends coworkers neighbors business people and delivery people.
Mailmen and parcel delivery people get around and notice a lot of stuff.
Even a good parts house knows what shops are good and not good.
Chamber of commerce and better business bureau and city hall.
If you find a good referral to a repair shop go look them over and talk to them.
Look for a clean looking busy place with nice people running it.
Ask a few questions and ask about their qualifications and training.
Not all places have trained tech/mechanics.
If they do not find a place that does.
Even all dealers do not have all trained techs/mechanics.

MT-2500 has given some good advice. On the compressor coming loose from motor, it depends on what has came loose to cause it to loosen. There is a possibility the threads for the mounting bolts have stripped. If that is the case, it could be repaired with a helicoil kit. Wish I could see it in person. I could give you a definate answer on how to repair it. If you have a digital camera, take some close up pictures and post them. Welcome to the forum and make yourself at home.

If he is quoting time to remove the compressor and drill out/or repair threads, then that might be right. Have any of you replaced or removed an A/C compressor from a 1996-2007 Taurus yet? I did and it was not fun. I had to put a pole jack under the engine, remove both front subframe bolts, drop the subframe, remove the right front motor mount, then remove the compressor.

Labor was more than the compressor.

Have any of you replaced or removed an A/C compressor from a 1996-2007 Taurus yet?


24 valves are a bear. Fortunately all I had to change was the clutch. I was able to pull the compressor out enough to get it out. Didn't even have to open the system. Lucky. Just waiting for the compressor to go out next.