My AC has quit on the job. The problem is that when the clutch engages, it seems not to connect with the front spinner that drives the actual compressor. The solenoid pulls the plate in successfully.

The clutch plate, not engaged, seems to be very loose between the plate and the front element.

I probably haven't explained well, but, can any of you gurus help?

TTIA
george

 

Your clutch could be worn out. Another possibility is that nut that holds the clutch on has come loose and the clutch has worked its way out. The former is more likely than the latter. And sorry, I can't tell you what size it is. You might stick a mirror down there and see if you can see the nut, and whether it's tight.<br><br>Chris

 

Thanks for the reply, Chris. Yeah, I checked the nut, and it seems to be ok. I am just wondering whether there is a spring or something that holds the clutch plate against the compressor wheel. The manual doesn't give any info about the AC compressor at all except that the pulley iis held on with spring clips.<br>Guess that I will have to go to a shop.

 

Well, not being familiar with the exact setup of this compressor, I can tell you that normally the spring pulls the clutch away from the compressor, and the magnet pulls it to the compressor to engage it. <br>I don't know why this one would be any different, but I could be wrong.<br>Fortunately, you don't have to go to the dealer for this one. You might be able to get a diag form someplace and do it yourself, but if memory serves, some of the compressors require special tools to remove the clutch. Most just have a nut to remove and a snap ring inside holding the rear part on.<br><br>Chris

 

Thanks again, Chris. I think that I will get a new clutch and go from there. I know that the compressor is OK, because if I bend the tangs on the drive wheel in slightly they will engage with the clutch plate and everything works fine. Perhaps the little &quot;engagers&quot; are worn on the plate, or something like that.<br>Many thanks.<br>george

 

Smokey, as I remember it (CRSA) you will need a special puller for the clutch. Everything can be done while the compressor is on the truck, although the radiator and/or air cooler will probably have to come out . I believe that AutoZone will have the puller to lend if you order the part from them. If they don't have the puller try PEP boys.

 

BigBlackDodge:<br>Thanks for the reply. Where did you get the clutch? All of the local suppliers that I have tried carry only the whole assembly at mega-bucks.<br><br>I have a couple of different snap ring pliers, so with any luck....<br>george

 

I think this is the clutch yo uneed, but verify with the vendor before you order:<br>http://www.acsource.com/product.asp?...=300&amp;3=276<br><br>You can also check Ebay. I have seen lots of compressors on there.<br><br>Chris

 

WOW. thanks for all the work, Chris. Noneof the parts suppliers here stocks the clutch...they do not even show it as a listed item. The dealer has one that he can order, but the proce is almost as much as a rebuilt compressor!<br><br>Thaks again. I will post the results.<br>george