Went out this morning to find the bearings (assuming) in the ac compressor clutch is basically going south real quick. Also noticed Saturday night that the air wasn't working either. Is there a replacement belt I can put on for now to bypass the AC unit until I get a chance to replace the compressor?

 

Just unplug that A/c, it will just let it free spin.

 

bearings going on your A/C compressor along with no A/C means low on fluid and mainly OIL. There is supposed to be an exact mixof oil/freon in there. No oil=burnt up a/c compressor.

 

If the clutch bearing has failed, then I think you are going to have a hard time bypassing the compressor. I haven't really paid attention to the belt routing on the 03.

 

I feel like I have been on here quoting prices for radiators and ac compressor kits all night haha. Oh well I am bored.

Complete AC Kit for the truck. NEW compressor, O-ring kit, Drier/accumulator, expansion device....

2003:
5.7L $212 for the whole kit
4.7L & 3.7L $199

 

Sounds about right. Then you will need the proper amount of oil and freon.
Vacuum the system down to at least 29" of vacuum before charging.

 

You need to either move the compressor out of the way...or remove the pulley from the compressor (don't forget that snap-ring before you use the puller) Then you have to make sure the belt runs all the accessories the correct direction....or you are just going to cause more damage (like spinning out the water pump). The belt you need for the 4.7L is originally 88" long. you will need to go with a 6 tooth 83" belt (Advance Auto). It is a snug fit at first (5" smaller than stock)...found it to be easier to slide it on to the water pump...instead of tying to get it up over a pulley lip. The job actually took me 4 hours to do. So allow time to do so. Hopefully the picture will help answer any unanswered questions.

 

Neat info

 

Your post and photo saved me a ton of time, frustration, and all likelyhood, money. Thanks. I know this is a old thread, but I wanted to register and post to make sure people know that it mattered to somebody. Keep up the good work.

 

There is a better way to route belt