Hi All:

I just picked up a '98 SE earlier this week, with 127K on it. Having owned a '94 and '95 (the '95 finally gave up the ghost at 183K), I had no trepidation buying one with 127K on it.

I've noticed a mettalic noise that appears to be coming from the A/C compressor. After days of rain, I had the windows down and the A/C off and noticed the noise. Almost a 'sleigh bell' sound to it. Interestingly, when I put the A/C on, the noise seems to go away, perhaps when the clutch engages, but now it seems to be more consistent.

I'd appreciate your thoughts here. Is the answer a lubrication problem, or is it just 'plumb wore out'? Hoping there is a quick and inexpensive fix, so I don;t here the 'I told you so' from my loving wife.

Thanks,

-Jay

i've heard that on some other cars, one had the "sleigh bell" sound and his bearing was shot, had to get a new compressor, it wasn't a bonnie, the only worry with a spun bearing is that it could break free and then your stranded whereever you are

if that is the problem a cheaper fix would be the AC delete, an increase in HP, but no AC anymore

I'm willing to bet you a dollar, this is the exact noise you are hearing.



This is the AC clutch

You have some options. Run with the AC on all the time.

Adjust the clutch. Sorry, I don't have a write up on that. I will do one, just can't get to it right now. I think Toddster had something on this.

Or delete the AC. https://www.gmforum.com/t277814/

just had the same problem on my 97 se. i also had some metallic shavings under the compressor too. got the compressor replaced and no more noise. Im not sure if its possible but i did hear somewhere you can buy just a new clutch for it but not sure if thats true. anybody know about that? but if you dont need the a/c then i do recomend just deleting it because it was about a 1000 job for my compressor and everything.

The clutch can be adjusted.

maybe thats what i was told. thanks

https://www.gmforum.com/t269702/

read the whole thread and follow the links.

Most auto shops will not admit to this fix because they just want to sell you a compressor. find the right guy and your good to go.

Automotive AC Information Forum - ACKITS.COM

You called it, Dan. That is indeed the noise.

I saw a reman compressor on E-Bay for $144 that I can pick up locally. I'd rather not have an a/c delete car, but also wonder if a known good used compressor is worth taking a chance on? A guy on Craigslist is parting out '97 Bonnie nearby.

Any thoughts on this idea?

Adjust the clutch.