a/c clutch

[turkey28]

When the clutch on the a/c compressor on my 2002 Suburban engages it makes a sound like it is slipping for a second. Then while driving every so often I hear the slight slipping sound, like sliding 2 pieces of metal together. The a/c works good, but I'm headed out on vacation in a couple of weeks and don't want trouble on the road.

Has anyone else had this problem? Can the clutch be adjusted?

It is a 2500 with the 6.0 liter engine.

[Cusser]

The AC clutch gap can be adjusted, with shims added or taken out. Usually the gap widens up a hair, a shim may need to come out. So if the AC clutch itself is slipping, not the belt, it's either the gap or the electric coil is bad. The issue can be: is there room to do this with the compressor still on the engine? Free loaner tools for this are available at AutoZone.

[j cAT]

Originally Posted by turkey28

When the clutch on the a/c compressor on my 2002 Suburban engages it makes a sound like it is slipping for a second. Then while driving every so often I hear the slight slipping sound, like sliding 2 pieces of metal together. The a/c works good, but I'm headed out on vacation in a couple of weeks and don't want trouble on the road.

Has anyone else had this problem? Can the clutch be adjusted?

It is a 2500 with the 6.0 liter engine.

I have never read or heard of the clutch gap being adjustable only on install of clutch pulley you must install for the correct clearance..

I have seen a/c refrigerent oil leak on the clutch causing slippage...the shaft compressor seal leaks when spring arrives, usually a small amount then the slippage..
using a cloth dampen with paint thinner/mineral spirts used for regular oil paint and insert between the clutch/pulley surface....

also make sure the clutch connection is clean and secure, as a low voltage to the clutch coil will also do it but the oil is much more common.....

[turkey28]

Would it be alright to spray the clutch with a good contact cleaner to remove the oil if that is what it is? I'm not sure I can get to the compressor to try and wipe it down with a cloth.

[j cAT]

Originally Posted by turkey28

Would it be alright to spray the clutch with a good contact cleaner to remove the oil if that is what it is? I'm not sure I can get to the compressor to try and wipe it down with a cloth.

I won't do that ...but if thats what you want....solvents should not be sprayed all over ...

doing it the easy way is a good way to damage other componets and spraying the area still won't remove all the oil or debris built up under the clutch suface..