1997 2.2 Air Conditioning Clutch Assembly

[JennyDee]

My 1997 2.2 5S-FE Camry air conditioning magnet clutch assembly needs to be replaced as the pulley is wobbling. I’ve downloaded the PDF AC instructions from online manual.

My question is do I have to completely remove the compressor to replace the magnetic pulley assembly? I rather not remove the hoses from the compressor but was planning to unbolt the compressor and get access to the clutch assembly.

I don’t have the special tool, magnetic clutch stopper and clutch remover, but I would think I could use a pair of vice grips to hold the pulley and use a cut off 6 penny nail and use the pressure plate bolt to act like a wheel puller to pull the pulley assembly off the spline. Then use a magnet to get the nail out if needed.

Remove the three bolts holding the compressor and pinch off the bottom hose to the radiator and keep the air conditioning lines intact. I think there is enough room to rotate the compressor to access the clutch/pulley assembly and remove. .

The clutch plate, pulley assembly is available at Autozone for $90
http://tinyurl.com/naohwy

Does this sound like a workable plan?

[jdmccright]

Honestly, it is so tight between the pulley face and the right inner fender that I've never seen the AC clutch face real well.

The only thing I can think of is being able to hold the compressor while you attempt to remove the clutch. May be overkill, but bolting it to an engine stand might help keep it stable and near the engine while you are wrenching at it. Also will help prevent overflexing the hoses.

As for removing the clutch itself, I've only a little clue...either use the special tool that you don't have, or a jaw-type puller that is typically not recommended...anyone else?

[JennyDee]

Thanks for the suggestions

I did chat with the part person at Autozone. They do have, what I believe the threaded removal tool, to remove the pulley. Rent and return for $30 with refund. I'm dealing with a lot of unknowns here as I am assuming from the parts breakdown that after removing the center nut and then the 3 bolts holding the pressure plate, I will then remove the clutch assembly. remove a internal snap ring, Then use the special threaded bolt tool to remove the pulley from the spline. The part I was looking to purchase at Autozone comes complete with the pulley and clutch so I am counting on tapping the assembly back onto the spline and then bolting it on.

I think there is enough room after removing the complete compressor to turn it facing up and wrench off the clutch plate and pulley, but may have to pinch off the bottom hose to the radiator to give me more room.

I'm trying not to spend $300 for the compressor and assembly and then a recharge for $130.

I'll have to make a decision in a few days. I will have the car back then

JD

[Brian R.]

I don't know if this is a help or not, but if you are supposed to hold the pulley with an SST, I have had good luck with a chain wrench clamped on the pulley, using an accessory belt on the pulley to prevent the chain from digging into the pulley. If there is a flat spot, then you don't need an accessory belt, the chain wrench can be used on the flat. You may be able to tap off the pulley with a plastic hammer from the rear.

[JennyDee]

JD & Brian:
Thank you for the suggestions on the removal of the clutch assembly. I ended up replacing the compressor and clutch assembly with a remanufactured unit. With 12 years on the unit, second thoughts were to replace it, and it was less time consuming.
Toyota wanted $450, Autozone was $278 and Gold Auto Parts had it for $120.

http://tinyurl.com/puwx5r

So, the recharge cost was much easier to absorbe.

Thanks Again
JD

[jdmccright]

I will agree there...A/C clutches in general are a PITA to remove and as you note, putting a new clutch on an old compressor doesn't sound like a good use of one's time and money when there is an alternative that gives you better long-term reliability.

I will note that if you find any metal particles or grit in your A/C system, it should be flushed out and cleaned. Also, typically a new receiver/drier is installed with a new compressor...this is usually required to validate any compressor warranty. Good luck!