AC issues

[cavasinj]

2001 Alero, 3.1L V6, Automatic.

So my air condition works fine, but makes a lot of noise. What I can only call the clutch for the compressor is loose, or something- it rattles incessantly whenever the AC is not engaged. The rattling changes though, sometimes softer or louder. Every now and then it is silent, even without the AC engaged. Does anyone know if I will need to replace the compressor to avoid this noise, or can I just tighten a few bolts and make everything ok? (crossing fingers)

Thanks in advance
Joe

[BNaylor]

Most parts on the A/C clutch are repairable or replaceable without having to replace the whole compressor. It sounds like the air gap my need to be adjusted. When you get a chance perform a more closer inspection. Also, are you sure it is not just a noisy tensioner or flaky serpentine drive belt.

[cavasinj]

Oh yeah. Last year, if you recall, I was on here researching replacing my power steering pump. At the same time I replaced the belt and checked the tensioner. THe noise had been occurring for a short time at that point, and while working on it, I found if I were to use a screwdriver to push the clutch out a bit while the engine ran, it was far enough off the (pulley?) to keep from rattling.

As for replaceable/repairable- do you mean to tell me they thought something through for ease of maintenance on this car? Wow! Tell me more

Thanks
Joe

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by cavasinj

Oh yeah. Last year, if you recall, I was on here researching replacing my power steering pump. At the same time I replaced the belt and checked the tensioner. THe noise had been occurring for a short time at that point, and while working on it, I found if I were to use a screwdriver to push the clutch out a bit while the engine ran, it was far enough off the (pulley?) to keep from rattling.

As for replaceable/repairable- do you mean to tell me they thought something through for ease of maintenance on this car? Wow! Tell me more

Thanks
Joe

lol. No not really. Nothing is easy to work on when it comes to an Alero or any GM car for that matter but it could be worse. What I meant was parts are available for the GM compressor clutch without having to get a whole compressor. The whole compressor is too expensive to include evacuation and resupply of the refrigerant if it is just a clutch problem.

To access the compressor from the side to do work on the clutch just remove the inner fender splash guards and the bolts holding them to the front bumper cover. It beats going in from the top. All you may need are the push on trim fasteners because some will need to be cut to get the splash guards off.

[cavasinj]

So B, if I have it right, just take the wheel off and the trim inside and go from there? I guess though, I am a little uncertain of how to adjust this "clutch"... and not really sure what questions to ask to get more info. Can you lend me some clarity?
thanks
Joe

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by cavasinj

So B, if I have it right, just take the wheel off and the trim inside and go from there? I guess though, I am a little uncertain of how to adjust this "clutch"... and not really sure what questions to ask to get more info. Can you lend me some clarity?
thanks
Joe

That is correct. Jack it up safety and remove the wheel. It will make the job easier. The plastic splash guard blocking access is the forward guard(s). I'll check to see if I have a procedure for the A/C clutch and post it later.