How do I remove the A/C Clutch

[lwthomas_98]

I have a 1996 WIndstar with a 3.8. I need to replace the A/C Compressor Clutch. The manual I have only tells how to remove and replace the entire compressor. Is there a way to do it without removing the entire compressor?

[busboy4]

Originally Posted by lwthomas_98

I have a 1996 WIndstar with a 3.8. I need to replace the A/C Compressor Clutch. The manual I have only tells how to remove and replace the entire compressor. Is there a way to do it without removing the entire compressor?

Hi

My factory manual for '96 shows the job done only with the compressor out. The illustration shows a special "spanner wrench" being used to remove the outermost bolt on the compressor shaft. Then after the clutch plate is off there is a snap ring holding the pulley, and then the field is pressed on and must be removed with a puller, and pressed back on. You could either pull the compressor and take it to a shop just for the clutch replacement, or buy a re-manufactured compressor which will come with the clutch in place. Rockauto has a couple of compressors around $200, and sells the Ford OEM clutch assembly for $100 so it would seem worth the extra to get a new compressor in there. I don't really see how it is possible to do without pulling the compressor unfortunately. In that you will need to have the system vacuumed down before re-charging, and I assume that means taking it to a shop, it may just be one of those times when paying for the job makes sense. I have worked on a couple of car's systems replacing condensers, receiver/dryers etc. but have always had to take it in for vacuuming and re-charging afterwards (R12 systems) Unfortunately A/C work, aside from adding a bit of freon (R134a) is almost always going to involve paying for some portion of the job due to some specialized equipment (vacuum pump). It is amazing how expensive the A/c system can be comparatively.

Oh Yeah, what kind of problems are you having?

[lwthomas_98]

The clutch was not engaging and was smoking when you did try to engage the A/C. I am not really worried about the A/C working, just that the pulley didn't lock up and break the serpantine belt. I am leaving for Iraq next month and want to have it drivable for wife while gone. When I get back we are going to by our first new car and this should not be an issue for a while.

[busboy4]

Originally Posted by lwthomas_98

The clutch was not engaging and was smoking when you did try to engage the A/C. I am not really worried about the A/C working, just that the pulley didn't lock up and break the serpantine belt. I am leaving for Iraq next month and want to have it drivable for wife while gone. When I get back we are going to by our first new car and this should not be an issue for a while.

Hi

If you want to disable the clutch, just unplug it on top of the clutch assembly and/or pull the appropriate fuse as listed in the owners manual. Not sure what else if anything may be on the associated fuse.

Thanks for your service in Iraq. Good luck and Godspeed for a safe return.