Normal Residue on AC Compressor?
 

Have a look at these photos... is this black, oily dust normal for the AC compressor. I suspect it's just like brake dust, but from the magnetic clutch. Everything seems to work fine and the compressor doesn't make any noise.
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1145819586.jpg
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1145819610.jpg
It doesn't necessarily indicate a problem with a shaft seal or anything like that ? (he asked optimistically).

After the A/C is charged, as the hose is removed from the high-pressure line on that side, a discharge of the refrigerant under pressure happens. It deposits a light coating of oil on everything in the area that dust sticks to. That's probably all it is.

Oooh, Good answer! I like it. I'll just clean it up and hope it doesn't come back then.
Derek

It could also be particles from your belt.

Look for dirt stripe on the underside of the engine decklid in line with the compressor pulley; if you see one you may have a compressor shaft seal leak.