busted A/C

[STRAN]

OK guys, let me start by saying I have searched this subject and found some great advice and info.

A couple of days ago my A/C quit. (working in Bakersfield that is a big problem) When I inspected it armed with info from MM Forum the problem was obvious, I think. The compressor is seized, it was dark out but the sparks coming from the pulley were easy to see, the noise easy to hear. Shut the A/C off and all is well.

Would the relay switch for the compressor clutch failing cause these symptoms? I am thinking no.

Yes I know there is probably a leak somewhere. I do not know if I can pull the compressor (CA law, Federal law) myself. I am capable but am I allowed? I see all that refrigeratant and tools for A/C in the parts store.

[BAD MERC]

A leak would not lock up the compressor. The pressure switch on the receiver-dryer prevents the compressor from running if the charge is low. A compressor will "fast cycle" in the charge is low though. To verify if it is locked up, try to turn the non-belt driven portion of it with your hands. If it IS locked up, your entire system may be contaminated with debris and this is not for a shadetree mechanic to repair. If it is you will need a compressor, orifice tube and new receiver-dryer along with a system flush, evacuation and recharge. Hope for the best!

[STRAN]

Aaccckkkkk

[RF Overlord]

Are you sure the compressor is seized? It may simply be a bad clutch.

[STRAN]

There you go! that is what I am talking about. I have no idea. Working late so it will be dark out when I get home but was planning on trying to see if the belt will move.You may be on the mark as there is no problem when the comperssor is not engaged. Uh, how is the clutch fixed? I assumed a bad clutch meant a new comperssor unit.

[JohnE]

You should be able to turn the compressor over by hand, with the engine OFF. If you can not rotate the compressor, it's seized. Turn the front hub, not the rear pulley where the belt rides.


John

[STRAN]

got it! thanks!

[2vmodular]

the clutch on these compressors is removable. but new compressors have come down in price, and a lot of professional repair shops don't service compressor clutches seperatetly anymore.

that slipping might just be the clutch surfaces have worn down enough that they don't lock together with enough force to run the compressor anymore. in which case, you might be able do a temporary fix by simply removing a shim washer from the clutch.

your a/c repair is going to get a lot more expensive if that compressor grenaded internally. besides replacing the compressor itself, you will also need to replace the replace the condensor to get the debris out, flush the system real good, and replace any hoses with mufflers in them.

below are some pictures of a compressor from a 2004 lincoln towncar showing the clutch components:


There you go! that is what I am talking about. I have no idea. Working late so it will be dark out when I get home but was planning on trying to see if the belt will move.You may be on the mark as there is no problem when the comperssor is not engaged. Uh, how is the clutch fixed? I assumed a bad clutch meant a new comperssor unit.

http://images17.fotki.com/v297/photos/8/42438/8580280/PICT2258-vi.jpg

http://images56.fotki.com/v548/photos/8/42438/8580280/PICT2259-vi.jpg

http://images51.fotki.com/v1544/photos/8/42438/8580280/PICT2261-vi.jpg

http://images56.fotki.com/v548/photos/8/42438/8580280/PICT2263-vi.jpg

http://images56.fotki.com/v547/photos/8/42438/8580280/PICT2272-vi.jpg

http://images9.fotki.com/v447/photos/8/42438/8580280/PICT2381-vi.jpg

http://images19.fotki.com/v285/photos/8/42438/8580280/PICT2370-vi.jpg

[STRAN]

Last night I tried to turn the pulley by hand but it is suck tight. i have decided to take it to a shop because I can not have the car laid up for days on end while I tear into it.

Nice web site ou got there 2vmodular.