Just ran into a new problem yesterday. A/C Compressor is making a howling/grinding noise when it unlocks and disengages. A/C works fine, blows nice cool air in low and max A/C. I can clearly tell the noise is from the compressor clutch.
I have never re-charged the freon in the truck, owned it since new. I don't know if there are any leaks in the system, as I said, it seems to blow cold air just fine.
When I unplug the electrical connector to the compressor, I get the howling noise as the clutch disengages.
When the clutch is engaged and turning, no noises. When it disengages, noise again. When the engine is off, and I turn the inside portion of the compressor clutch, i hear and feel grinding. Bad news I am sure.
I recently changed out the water pump and timing chain, so I know there is no problems there. Its not the PS pump either.
Any ideas here on fixing this? I'd rather not get into discharging the system, and I really don't need A/C right now, but I'd rather not cause any damage bypassing it. I like doing repairs on my own, but am wary of the A/C system.
Thanks for the advice!
Mark
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The bearings or the clutch plate on the compressor is going out. If you can move it manually and hear the noise, I would say it's pretty far gone. You can try to lube it with some WD-40 and see if that helps with the noise, but I think it's just a matter of time. Some people try to change out the clutch and see if that makes it better, but if not then that means it's the compressor. I would say wait till it goes out and get both new compressor and clutch. Yes, sometimes you can buy them separate, but to me it makes no sense mating a new part to an old part. I would replace both for optimal performance.
__________________ 1997 1500, 318 CID, 4x2 Laramie SLT, Extended cab, Pendaliner SR bed liner, After market fogs in OE slots, Bone stock, Dodge Mud Guards, Custom tool box under hood on pass fender, Laramie Club Member, Black Truck Club Member 111.
Yea, if you put on a shorter belt you should be OK. If it's not turning it wont make any noise. Look on your radiator mount and it tells you the alternate method of routing your belt without the A/C.
__________________ 1997 1500, 318 CID, 4x2 Laramie SLT, Extended cab, Pendaliner SR bed liner, After market fogs in OE slots, Bone stock, Dodge Mud Guards, Custom tool box under hood on pass fender, Laramie Club Member, Black Truck Club Member 111.
A/C compressor clutch noise
