A/C noise,..need advice

kmschna · July 20, 2006

I noticed a whirr or a whine last week during very hot weather. Yesterday, noticed same noise along with the A/C working only intermittently (oh sh*t). The compressor was infact kicking in and out operation and especially when I would rev the engine. As engine speed increased, so did noise from the compressor area(I am only assuming it is the compressor). Today, during cooler weather, the A/C is working properly but still with some noise.

I will check pressures tonight, but am assuming they are OK. A/C is as cold today as ever, which is very cold. It's a great unit as long as it keeps working.

Had the compressor not been kicking in and out, I might assume the clutch, idler or pully. Now I wonder if the comp. is crapping out.

Any insight would be much appreciated.

Amended

I just returned from errands around town. Cab cooled as normal. Made stop at dealership to exhibit symptoms and the compressor noise more back to normal.

Dealer theorized the clutch is getting old and operates normal after running awhile,...said to come back after more severe. Also said normal fix is to replace whole compressor,..oh come on.

If true,.. is replacing the clutch practical. I know the price difference btwn clutch and whole unit is significant.

Thanks