A/C compressor noise

When I turn on the a/c, getting a whining noise. If a/c is off, everything sounds fine. It's a 2001 model and wondering if it just needs an oil charge. Air blows cold and all else seems fine. I don't want to mess with the ac system if I don't have to....anyone have same situation?

Should never be a reason to change oil in an a/c system.

The comrpessors on these are kinda noisy. Mine does the same thing.

It's the A/C clutch (pulley) bearing. Nothing's wrong with the compressor.
I used tomcollin's instruction in replacing mine, skipping steps 4 & 5.

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=556730&highlight=harmonic


Ops, your condition was opposite of what i got before i replace my A/C clutch assembly. So, disregard my answer above.

I got a noise when A/C was OFF (compressor was disengage from pulley) and i didn't have a noise when ON (engaged).

Thanks for the advice. The compressors have a certain type of oil compatible w/ the 34a refrigerant. I only have worked on older r12 systems--
lower pressures. The both use different oil, just not sure which so I'll have to call the man.