a/c compressor clutch?

[vfguy]

Hello all. new here. Have a a/c question for a 1997 XE 4cyl. 90,000 miles

It started with a squealing noise when the a/c compressor would kick in. Then it started squealing when I would start the truck. I replaced the belts b/c it was cheap and they looked like they could use it. Then I replaced the a/c & p/s idler pulleys. No dice.

The truck squeals when I start it until I put it in gear. The a/c will start squealing 3 out of 4 times that I press the a/c button (the 4th time is the only thing keeping me sane in the Arizona desert). The a/c does blow cold.

I found that there is a replacement compressor CLUTCH (p/n 9266056G02), but only an OEM for $400+. Heck, I can get a complete remanufactured compressor from O'Reily for $250. I also heard that the clutch could be adjusted. I'm guessing it's worn and if I could adjust it in a little to let it "grab" better, that might solve the problem? Maybe the bearing? I can get one for $8.50. Not a timkin, but I don't need one...

The second best option seems to either get a used compressor for $50-$75 and just pay a shop to evac/fill the system.

I don't plan on keeping the truck much longer as I hate the fact that the turtle in the advert on the right side of this page (as I'm typing) is faster than this truck. The final straw was when I got passed by what looked like an '79 Subaru Wagon like my mother had when I was in school. All that and 15mpg too.

Any thoughts on adjusting the clutch or other options appreciated.

[Q451990]

to NICO!

I don't know that the clutch can be adjusted. If there's a way to do it, it should be in the factory service manual - available at www.nicoclub.com/FSM/

Are you sure the tension is correct on the belts? The quick and dirty way I've seen to set them is to twist the belt... if you can get it to twist 90 degrees at the measurement point shown in the manual, you're about right. I would try tightening the belt a bit more if you haven't done so. I had a '97 XE, and it was very much prone to belt noise. In fact, my neighbor two doors down still owns it and I hear it squealing quite a bit when he starts it. My '04 isn't much better.

If you're convinced that it's the clutch, Autozone shows replacement parts that are pretty cheap on their web site. I would try that - especially if you're not going to keep it much longer.

Heath