3800 serpentine belt

[pirho451]

Everyone,

Is there a serpentine belt available for the 3800 WITHOUT air conditioning? I have a feeling that the compressor on my '94 is about to sieze up. On another car I have, we just installed a belt from the same model, except without air conditioning, and the car's been running fine without A/C for 5 years now. I definitely want to get the A/C fixed, but right now I don't have the money to get it done. I thought a new belt that bypassed the compressor would at least buy me some time until I get the $500+ that I'll need to repair the system.

Jonathan

[polarzak]

I don't think there is one specifically for the LeSabre, as AC is pretty well standard. Something would probably fit, but unless someone has done this before, it might be trial and error. If it is the compressor, and not the pully bearing, that you are concerned about, why not just disconnect the electrical plug at the compressor?

[pirho451]

because it's actually the clutch that is having problems. It is causing a disturbing little metal-on-metal noise that is coming from the ball bearings. It's doing this even though the compressor is not engaging (there's no refrigerant in there anyways).

[formzy]

What you have here is the typical v-5 compressor clutch drag. When the air compressor is engaged there is no noise. When off the clutch drags on the the pulley plate. You need to establish a .020 inch air gap. My girlfriend's '97 Lesabre had the same problem. You'll even see metal shavings around the frame below the compressor. I rented(loaned) for free a clutch removal tool my my Murray's Auto parts and backed out the clutch to .020 air gap. I was told how to do this by GM Tech on aircondition.com. Many shops will try to charge you big money saying th clutch bearing is shot etc. Don't fall for this. It's a typical problem with this compressor and is easily fixed. Still quiet after one year. He says (GM Tech) he has done them for years and never had a return call for failing again. Good Luck ! Formzy

[pirho451]

Interesting... especially since I drive by Murray's on my way home. I'll try to stop by there this evening.

[93buicklesabrelmtd]

I beliieve they do sell a V-belt to use with the Lesabre without AC. Its just a shorter size. There should be a picture under your hood, that will explain how to connect it that way.
But its summer time, you will miss that AC.