A/C clutch problem

[Alvy]

Hello, I have a 94 Sierra 3500 series P/u with the 6.5 diesel. I have had an A/C problem for a while and recently figured it out but have a question regarding the A/C compressor clutch. Intermittently the A/C clutch won't pull in after it cycles a few times and after I found out that it wasn't a voltage problem I realized that just by tapping it lightly with a mallet it will pull and stay in. It seems to me that the air gap is too much and the magnet doesn't have enough force to pull the clutch in when this happens. Is there an adjustment to this gap and if so any special tool part number and instructions that you might have or do I need a new clutch? I'm assuming that if I need a new clutch that it is replaceable with a special tool also? Thanks, Mike

[pm26]

There are special tools for removing and installing an A/C compressor clutch.

 

You can rent them at Auto Zone.

 

I am not familiar with the GM compressor clutch, but the one on my Mazda 626 had an adjustable air gap and you did that by adding or subtracting small shims that looked like think steel washers.

 

I would first remove the clutch and inspect it. It is possible that the pulley bearing is falling apart, in which case the clutch will be rubbing on one side. In this case, you will need a new clutch/pulley &bearing assembly.

 

 

When replacing the A/C clutch on my Mazda Sanden A/C compressor, the new clutch air gap had to be properly shimmed to the spec. They enclosed a packet of shims for that purpose.

[Alvy]

Thanks for the reply Pete. I did find out yesterday that I can rent the special tool from them and also that a reman is about $180.00 so I'll be tackling that soon. Still tryin to work all the bugs out but you can't beat getting a diesel dually crew for only $1,200.00, right? Thanks again, Mike