bad compressor or...

[jbjslambert]

compressor making a whining noise when engaged, almost sounds like a power steering pump noise but lower pitch. what do you think? bad compressor or just low on refrigerant?

[Godofwarmike]

you might need to add some AC compressor oil to your system. it might be running without lube.

[HotZ28]

Do a pressure test, now is the time to get things ready before warm weather. BTW, what year is your car?

[jbjslambert]

oops, its a 1997 lesabre custom. btw, do you think those cheap little pressure testers at autozone are good enough for quick look see of the pressure? thanks

i had to run the ac yesterday here in NC it was 75-77 degrees,lol.

[jbjslambert]

oh and one more thing. the clutch is making that scraping noise sometimes when NOT engaged. clutch is like 100 bucks at AZ. so i am thinnking about trying my luck with junkyard compressor with 30 day warranty (which just bascially protects me from taking home one that just absolutely doesnt work) and replacing the orraffice tube and dryer which are cheap new

[HotZ28]

The cheap low pressure (suction) gage will give you an idea, however, on a system as old as yours, it would be a good idea to check both high & low sides. You want to be sure the expansion valve screen is not blocked. Good luck!