A/C compressor clutch not totally disengaging (i think)
 

Hello-

I have an '82 DP 935 (930 a/c, etc), and ran the A/C for a long time, for the first time, yesterday on our Roundup trip.

It now seems that the compressor clutch is not totally disengaging, as when I turn the A/C off, a squeel starts up, and the belt is working just fine (not slipping or anything), but the "inner rotating disk thingy" is spinning at a slower speed than the "outter rotating disk thingy" that the belt is attached to. As far as I can tell, it shouldn't be spinning at all. Correct?

When I turn the AC back on, both "rotating disk thingies" rotate at the same speed, no noise, and nice cool (not cold) air.

(Please excuse my rather technical jargon) ;)


I assume that this means that the clutch is not disengaging properly or is somehow damanged, etc.

My question is... what are my options?

I was just talking to my mechanic, and he says that I should just take the belt off and live without it, as he hasn't ever seen a clutch replacement work properly.

I should also mention that I live in Canada, home of no R12, so any kind of a replacement compressor means a moonlight trip to see John Walker for a recahrge of that "illegal" R12 stuff, or a complete upgrade to the newer, legal stuff.

And yes, I know that I should just take it all out as it's extra weight (like I'm not sporting enough extra weight myself), but I'm trying to keep an eye on the resale value, and want to leave it as stock as I can.... tossing the system isn't one of my more appealing options.


Anyone?


thanks...


...jeff

PS: I should also mention that I haven't run it since it's had a chance to cool down, so it might be OK to run until I have to use it again... but I'd really like to get it working so I can use it when I want to.

Jeff,

Had the same thing happen on mine. Something is not releasing if the center of the unit is spinning, even slowly.

Better that you take the belt off before you cause anymore damage to the compressor and clutch.

JoeA

I have to disagree with your mechanic. I have replaced the clutch on an auto AC and it worked fine until the car was sold several years later. I would go ahead and replace the clutch, or live without the AC

The clutch can be reliably replaced. Of course there is far more umm err gravy in upgrading you to the new coolant......

Jeff

Thanks...

Jeff, Stu gave the the number of someone over at Anglo to talk to about trying the replacement... ever heard of them?


...jeff

Hancockindustries.com is a great source of A/C parts

Thanks guys... I'm going to try and replace it over the next few days.

Anglo? Nope, but, If Stu farms out work there I am sure you can trust them. Eveyone he has sent me to for advice or work has been top notch.

Jeff