93 Rx-7
5-speed/int/dp/mp/cb

This is really really weird...

When I come to a stop, sitting at a light, out of gear, I can hear the AC compressor kick on and off working fine as evitable by the change in rpm range. AC on- higher idle speed, and AC off- lower idle speed.

Here's the problem...

If I sit at a light long enough, a sudden rough metal grinding noise (anywere between 2-5 secs) can be heard coming from the passenger side- under the hood. Once the noise ceases, the car dies. This is only experienced when I leave the AC running.

The only solution I could find to prevent the car from dying was to hold the rpm constantly at 1500 while the AC is on. It's getting to be pretty annoying.

All ideas is appreciated.

Tried doing a search, but was unsuccessful.

 

check the clutch on the ac unit and the air pump . Unplug the air pump and try it , gray connector .

 

the clutch is bad on your ac compressor. I had the same problem, used to squeal a lot. The compressor wheel is to hard to turn and the clutch is slipping on the face of the wheel.

 

Your air pump is dying

Time to eliminate it or replace it.

thesaint

 

Thanks for replying guys.

I just unplugged the air pump, and will test it out tomorrow. If there is still a problem then I can come to a conclusion that it's my AC compressor.

I'll let you guys know what happens.

 

UUURRRRGGGGHHHH,

It's my air pump...no more metal chatter or stalling, but...

Question???

Can I daily drive my 7 with the air pump unplugged? I don't want to remove the pump since I need it to pass the smog every two years (just passed smog last month). I figured since it still works, as long as I don't run the AC, I 'll just plug it on during smog time.

I do notice however that my car tends to idles lower and bumpy now that I unplugged the connector. Why is that? Is it safe?

 

ssr, that thing is so easy to uninstall.. it would be worth it to just put it back in for the smog test. with out it, you will free up some hp for two years.
it is definatly the air pump. it always goes if you have an intake sucking engine bay air.
but here in fla, no emmisions, ive got a full open exhaust and intake and no air pump.

raj

 

You could always buy a used Aip Pump for around $40-50 on the forum. There are tons of them that are just collecting dust...

 

raj,

It's always good to pick up some horses, but I'm experiencing heavy fumes and choppy idle at the moment. Don't know how long I can deal with that. NO EMMISSIONS in fla...I envy you and those who are in the same position as you. I leave in CA., so I'm leaning toward what some of guys have mention and that's just to replace the airpump. But who knows you idea is definitely tempting.

Thanks everyone for your help.

 

i'lll sell ya one