Hi all -
Back to the place for ALL the answers!
I recently had my AC serviced. A week later, the engine is really noisy. Besides my power steering unit leaking terribly, the mechanic said the AC compressor is locked up and running all the time the belt is moving. So 2 questions. Can I not buy a belt that is made for engines without AC and bypass the compressor altogether? Second question: The mechanic quoted $350 for a new compressor plus labor and freon. A co-worker in her 8cyl Sport had the bearings in the compressor replaced for $50. Should I have someone check the bearings before getting the entire compressor replaced?
This is a 2000 Dakota Sport 4cyl extended cab Long-bed. Almost all under the hood is original.
Thanks all for the input -

 

If talking about the clutch bearing it can be replaced the problem is finding the correct parts or finding a shop willing to do it most will not and say you must replace the compressor.

So yes DIY new clutch with a new bearing is possible and not hard at all I replaced my clutch and bearing.

You could try taking the clutch nut off and trying to take the plate off the plate may be rusted on that may free it.

Personal I don't see how thats possible that its locked up.

 

He may have meant the bearings are locked up.
Should there be any problem running a serp belt that bypasses the AC? I really don't want to do that in an Oklahoma summer.
I'll try removing the clutch nut and the plate, see if there's rust.

Summer in Arizona doesn't sound too pleasant this year either!

 

Yea we just hit a few 120 days last week.

Try removing the nut be very careful sometimes the shaft breaks off if its stuck and you use to much force baby it off don't lose the washers under the plate.

If you get it off take a Pic or two of it.

 

You can replace the idler puller and magnetic clutch (I did). Buy a new one or find a smooth turning junkyard unit. On the 4.7L and probably others, they can be replaced without removing compressor or disconnecting the lines and losing freon. You'll need a 2 or 3 jaw puller, snap ring pliers and youtube videos. You can jam the pulley with a screwdriver and hit the nut with an impact, or a few sharp taps to loosen it, then go from there. You don't need the special tool this guy made in the video.