1997 Rodeo Air Compressor Question

I have a 97 Rodeo, 3.2, with 152,000 miles. It ticks a little but overwise it is in good shape. The compressor is squeals loudly and then releases and repeats again once the temp gets down to 78 degrees. I called PepBoys and they gave me an estimate of $1286 to change the compressor, dryer/receiver, expansion valve and recharge it. I hate to sink this much into it unless I have to. Since I am confident that it is the compressor would it be completely stupid to just change it out and recharge the system? I can get a compressor from O'Reilly for $328.

are you sure it is the compressor. i have a 95 rodeo that started doing that and it turned out to be the harmonice balancer seperating. hope its not that but it might help. good luck.

If you're sure its the comrpessor, take it to someone to have the refrigerant recovered. Then you can replace the compressor and filter/dryer yourself. Then go back and have them pull a vacuum on the system and recharge it. You can save yourself some money that way.

Once you've opened the system you need to have a vacuum pulled on it to remove all air and moisture before recharging. Not something most ppl have the equipment for.