My A/C compressor is working well when it is spinning but when it is off the outside wheel spins very slow and makes a very loud noise. I think the noise is the belt rubbing against the pulley. Does this mean the clutch in the A/C compressor is going out?

Is there a way to fix this without removing the compressor?

Thanks!

 

Ok, when the a/c clutch is engaged the compressor is turning, so the center face of the compressor appears to be also turning, Correct?

When the a/c clutch is disengaged, the center face of the compressor should not be turning. If it rattles and clatters and slowly spins, then the clutch is not fully disengaging. Is this what you are seeing?

 

Yes that is exactly what is happening. It spins very slow when disengaged. The outside and the center and makes a lot of noise. The center wheel should be completely stopped? Does the outside wheel spin and then the center wheel sits completely still when disengaged?

Can the clutch be replaced without replacing the entire compressor?

 

You have it a little backwards; The outside (belt and pulley) spin all the time. The face is attached to the shaft. I should turn with the pulley when clutch is engaged and should stay still when the clutch is disengaged.

The clutch can be replaced, but I don't have the patience or tools to do it on the car. The last time I had a clutch go out, I just bought another working compressor from another forum member. I think I bought it shipped in for about $25, the clutch alone was close to that price. People take them off all the time; they are just laying around used as doorstops.



The downside is that you need to open the system and recharge it afterwards. If you don't have the experience or tools to do this, then you can have a local shop do it for you.

Good Luck.