'79 - a/c pulley

[Rupesy]

When I bought the car the belt for the a/c was not on but PO said it did work. Anyway, while I was under yesterday, I felt the pulley and it wobbled quite a bit. Didn't feel comfortable putting a belt on it (now thinking the guy was a liar). Anyway, I checked the system pressure and it was OK, and the compressor does turn by hand. Can the front end of the compressor be rebuilt (pulley, bearings and clutch)? For a few bucks, I would mind giving it a shot before replacing the whole thing.

BTW - is there a reference manual for the belt sizes?? I wan't to replace them.

[JK McDonald]

Hey Rupesy, A failed/damaged compressor clutch can be removed and replaced without releasing the freon charge. There is a lip seal in place on the shaft behind the clutch that keeps the gas and the compressor innards from exposure to the outside world. A new or rebuilt clutch assembly comes as a complete unit and ready to install. This includes the pulley, bearing, clutch face and the electrical engagement coil. The trick is to have enough room to operate the special hand tools (Typically loaned by Auto Zone) used to pull the old clutch off and then push back on the new one.



Just looking down into the engine bay area it looks like it can be done, but some more experienced owners may be able to fill in the specific details.

One other thought - 1st make sure the electrical coil is still good and the clutch is engaging by applying 12 volts to the input electrical wire - but if the bearing is the only problem, it can be purchased separately at most any auto-parts store or bearing supply shop. Once the old clutch is off the car - just remove the large circle (or similar) retaining clip and punch the bearing out the back side of the assembly. The bearing guys can either read the part number or simply measure the inner and outer diameter. Always buy the heavy duty replacement if available. You still must go through all the clutch assembly replacement steps - but this might save you a few bucks....

Good Luck, Michael

[Rupesy]

Thanks for the input...that's the info I was looking for....I was under there the other day, and I got plenty of room to work.....I'll check the clutch first...