AC compressor clutch making noise

[pp270]

My AC compressor clutch is making a high pitched ratling noise. Is the clutch/pulley something that can be purchased seperatly and easily changed? If so how is this done? Does it need to be changed out from the bottom? A step by step change out procedure would be nice.


Regards,
PP270

[pp270]

Another question. Is it possible to get the AC compressor clutch off w/o removing the compressor? It appears I only have four inches to pull the clutch off is this enough space with a puller?

[GTP Dad]

You would be better off to purchase another compressor either used or remanufactured, have it installed and recharge the system. The clutch can be purchased seperately but the labor to remove and reinstall it would not be cost effective to just replace the clutch. This would not be a diy job due to the tools necessary to replace the clutch. And you would have to remove the compressor from the vehicle to do it.

[MT-2500]

Originally Posted by pp270

Another question. Is it possible to get the AC compressor clutch off w/o removing the compressor? It appears I only have four inches to pull the clutch off is this enough space with a puller?

If you are sure it is the clutch or bearing and the rest of AC system is working ok.
You can buy a clutch and hub with bearing kit.
Most of the time you will have to unbolt compresser and drop down some to get the clutch on and off.
But if you are luckie you can leave the ac lines on and not lose any gas.

[pp270]

Is a pulley puller the only special tool that you will need to remove the clutch? I noticed the compressor has rubber lines so it sounds feasible to unbolt and drop some to remove the clutch. Do I have to remove anything else to unbolt/drop the compressor?

[MT-2500]

Originally Posted by pp270

Is a pulley puller the only special tool that you will need to remove the clutch? I noticed the compressor has rubber lines so it sounds feasible to unbolt and drop some to remove the clutch. Do I have to remove anything else to unbolt/drop the compressor?

Just unbolt whatever is in the road.
It is best to drop the compressor down where you can get a straight shot at the front end of it .
You may need a clutch plate remover and installer.
Some can be installed with a socket over the remover..
Also depending how tight the hub pulley is you may need a hub pulley remover and installer.
You need a driver the same size as the inner bearing.
Sometimes a short piece of large steel pipe the right size will get it if you do not have the tool.
And do not forget some snap ring pliers for the hub bearing.
When installing the clutch plate set the proper spacing on it.
Some parts places rent or loan the tools to get the job done.
Good luck and let us know how it goes