I have a 2001 Dodge Full Size Pickup with a Cummins diesel engine. The a/c clutch fuse continues to blow when I engage the a/c. I suspect that the clutch is gone - but I don't know. I have a couple of questions

1. Is my diagnosis correct that it is the A/C clutch.

2. If not, then what else could it be?

2. Can I replace the clutch without replacing the entire compressor?

Thanks and I appreciate any help.

Rodney

 

I'm pretty sure you can buy the clutch by itself at Autozone. They will probably have to order the part. Other than windshield wipers, oil and air filters, Autozone stocks NOTHING for the 2500/3500 trucks!

 

I did a search for your truck, and Autozone and Napa (at least online) do not offer a seperate clutch for the A/C, but makeitmopar.com does list just the clutch.
The same thing is true with my truck... but, you can try calling an autoparts store.

 

Thanks for the information on finding the a/c clutch separately. How hard is it to replace? Do I have to take the compressor out of the truck? I hope I do not because that will mean that I have to discharge and recharge the system.

Thanks,
Rodney

 

Right from the 2001 Service Manual:

[IMG]local://upfiles/948/1B2B1C4B2CD34518A18018F87D931C54.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/948/11BA892997504E90AA550826CF27BCBE.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/948/22D7E742AF7D4311BB858B67FF933A4C.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/948/7C0286B86645486FA491D561FDD5437C.jpg[/IMG]

 

Thank you so much. Looks like there are a number of special tools required. It should be an interesting project!

Rodney

 

No disrespect, but I'd will be interested to see if you complete this task with the compressor still attached to the vehicle. Thanks.

Good luck.

 

I'm with you on that one.

I know they are an expensive part but you might as well go with a new one. You will most likely end up replacing the compressor at one time or another anyway. But again, good luck.

 

I kinda agree.
A new clutch from makeitmopar.com is $153 ($204 from dealer).
A new compressor from makeitmopar.com is $333 ($444 from dealer).

From NAPA a new compressor with clutch $470. A reman. compressor with clutch is $380. (Autozone and O'Reilly are about $100 less for both new and reman.)

That way, I mean, your paying some more money, but, you know the compressor is good. (And I can post the instructions for the removal/installation if needed).

 

I didn't want to say it but I am now...........lol. My concern is that something in the compressor has failed and has caused the clutch to overheat. As soon as that clutch exceeds a certain temp, failure is imminent. It's the electrical system that can't handle extra heat. His compressor might be spinning by hand when the truck a/c is off. But when it engages, and small piece gets caught in that compressor, there goes another clutch.


The down side is, to get a warranty on a new ac compressor, you usually are required to install a new accumulator at the very least, I'm pretty sure. It would only make sense to flush the system at this point. And check the metering valve. In fact, just replace it. When you pull that valve out, check the screens. If they are clogged with little specs, it's metal from the compressor and confirmation that there is a major problem. At that point, ur screwed.


New compressor and accumulator mean new pag oil too!!!! WOOHOO!!!!


I redid my entire system. It cost a few bucks, but I hang beef in my cab for the local butcher when the power goes out.....lol.

Do you have gauges?


Good luck.