Compressor is dying, what to replace?

[exbass94]

The A/C compressor in the Explorer is dying. Specifically, the compressor clutch is dying. When you turn the A/C or defroster on, the clutch just slips and makes a burning smell. Since this is the original 16 year old unit with 151k miles on it, I think it'd be best to just replace the whole compressor. For now, I've disconnected the wire on the compressor so I can still use the defroster. But, it's starting to make noise all the time when the engine is running, even with the wire disconnected. (Compressor might be starting to seize?? ) This problem has JUST started, and the truck has only been driven a total of maybe 30 miles since I've noticed this problem.

I will also most likely replace the lines. One of them has an oily residue on it, which makes me believe it's leaking. The system needed to be recharged about 2 years ago and has been fine, although last summer the A/C felt really weak. However, the lines are sold as a complete set, and they're $80. So, I'd rather not replace them if they're fine. I guess I could have the shop test it and see if they hold pressure first. Thoughts/opinions on that?

Anything else that should be replaced? I want the A/C working good as new again, but I can't afford to dump tons of money into it and I don't want to replace parts that are still perfectly good.

 

[coltx1]

fix it all

look,if you replace the compressor,and your lines are leaking,you're going to ruin another crompressor. fix it all together.if you dont have the money,save it up and suffer 1 summer.its better than blowen money out the window.

 

[MountainMike]

Find out wha labour is on a AC pressure test. If it's say half shop time then your already looking at $50 at which at which point you may need new AC lines anyways. I say just replace it all, start with the compressor. Then ge a full flush when you replace the lines.

Or start simply and just try to re-oil the compressor and see if that shuts it up.

 

[exbass94]

Well it seems my compressor is seized, which means I'll have to replace the accumulator and condenser as well. I have the money, I'm just not really willing to spend it on a spare vehicle that I don't really need, that's worth no more than 2 grand.

I installed a shorter serpentine belt that bypasses the compressor and I'm just gonna run it like that for now. If summer driving becomes really unbearable, I may reconsider repairing it.