1996 ranger A/C clutch or compressor ?

[tommytater]

I have a 96 Ranger and it does the same thing. REGARDLESS of what setting its on.A/C on or off.Defrost on or off. EVERYTHING off. The clutch engages for a few seconds then disengages. Another issue is when its on MAX A/C it switches to defrost vents for a minute then back to panel vents.Weird.
So driving it today there was a horrible noise and lots of motor drag. I think the clutch seized or the compressor did. I went out and checked the clutch and I cannot spin the clutch. I read on here that I should be able to spin it with the motor off and AC off. Nope.Hmmm...So do I get a new clutch and try that? Or do I get a new Compressor. But that means recharging the system and taking it to shop.
Questions? Comments?
Thanks
T

 

[pcollins]

You'd have alot of belt squeal if it was locked right up. Shut everything off, fans, all of it. Turn the selector knobs all to off and start the engine. A/C compressor pulley should be freewheeling and the actual compressor shouldn't be spinning, if it is then yea, your clutch has probably seized the two together.