AC Clutch

[Richard STL]

2002 Chrysler Town and Country 3.3L 130,000 miles

AC clutch is making a rattling noise when the AC it turned on. It also looks like oil is draining out between the pulley and compressor.

The Real question is: Can I rebuild or repair the clutch and possibly bearings or do I have to replace the entire compressor/clutch as a unit?

[gacyota]

You can buy just the clutch assembly Four Seasons Part# 47374, will cost anywhere from $150-200. It doesn't look very available but if you have a knowledgable parts person, they can get you one. A new compressor will cost close to $350 plus the $30 for the drier plus the $40 in refigerant.
If you have any problems finding one, PM me and I'll see what I can do for you.

[way2old]

If there is oil coming from between the front of the compressor and the clutch assembly, you will probably need to remove the compressor and replace the front bearing and seal in the compressor. Weigh the cost of repairs, time involved, recovering and recycling the refrigerant against a professional doing it along with the warranty. It is a DIY if you have the proper tools to do the job. Good luck.

[Richard STL]

It's clear that I need to replace the entire compressor, bearing and clutch as a unit.

Dobbs (a local chain) will charge about $1000. It looks like I can get a compressor ($340), dryer ($40), orifice tube ($30), and evacuation and recharge ($150) for a total of about $560. I think I'll do it myself unless I get some advice to the contrary. It looks like there are no special tools required and the only thing I am concerned about is leaks.

Any advice from you guys?

[way2old]

If you have a place to evacuate and recharge for you, just be careful and you should be able to replace the compressor and other parts. Just be sure to add the proper amount of oil. Also if possible, have the place evacuate before the recharge to check for a leak for you. Also have them add a little dye so it will be easily spotted if a leak does occur. You can buy an inexpensive light and glasses to check for a leak. Good luck and just remember to take your time.

[fstf2v]

If the bushing in the a/c clutch fail and the plate separetes from the base(in a emergency you can krazy glue the plate back to the clutch base-put a screw driver in between to hold it in place= DoNot glue the compressor base and DO NOT TURN ON THE A/C . If you catch it before the compressor shaft bearings and seals break all you need is a new clutch. My car broke in the dessert at night and I didn't have to pay for the tow or the repair to the only guy in town for big bucks. I don't think the gas station carries krazy glue anymore . I drove it like that for a week.
fstf2v