I noticed this spring that my A/C compressor isn't working. No clicks when I turn it on. I tested for power at the compressor, and I do have power there when the A/C is on inside the car. So I don't think it'* a problem with any of the pressure switches. It sounds like it must be the clutch, huh?

I've heard that they are very hard to replace (just the clutch), they take a special tool to remove from the compressor and the compressor has to be removed from the car to do it anyway.

I was wondering how hard it is to put in a new compressor/clutch assembly? I'm waiting for a quote from a shop now, but I'll bet it'* going to be a lot. I can get a rebuilt compressor for about $220.

Loosen the belt, remove the freeon lines, 3 bolts and it'* out, right?

BTW this is on a 92 SE that has been retrofitted to use R134a. I have access to a set of hoses/gauges to refill the system with R134a when the new compressor is on.

Thanks,
-Ryan

Well u got part of it. You have to remove the front manifold and crossover pipe to do it also. But yes i think the 10mm on the lines, one electrical connection, and the 3 or 4 15mm (i think) bolts get it off. I've gone it on my '87 it'* not that hard but u might get a few cuts. It'* a tight fit. And it'* moderately heavy too.

I hope you don't mean the exhaust manifold? The part on the compressor where the lines go in is called a manifold, too?

The compress comes out the bottom of the engine bay, right? Is there anything that needs to be taken off to make room for it to be pulled out? I guess your 87 would be different enough from the 92 that you couldn't answer that...

-Ryan

On the 93 I did (should be the same as 92) I removed it from underneath. Remove that shield, as well as undo the two hardlines completely at both ends. The two hardlines wouldn't allow me to pull it out, so they had to go. Make sure to use two wrenches on the ends, cause they are mounted to fittings that are brazed in. One to the condenser (round metal thingy in back left corner) and one to the radiator on the left side. No need to remove the exhaust manifold.

Let me know if that was too confusing.

I talked to the guy at the shop and he thinks it'* the clutch coil, because the compressor is not locked up, it just won't engage or click or anything.

He said it'* about $150 to put in a clutch coil, and around $1000 to put in a new compressor (he only uses new AC delco parts).

Anyone know how the clutch coil goes in? I would assume the compressor has to be removed, but I am surprised they would purge the system, remove the compressor/clutch, install the new coil, reinstall the compressor, and recharge the system for $150...

-Ryan

Have you checked your freon level? Usually it'* the most common problem.

Lol boy do i feel like an ***, i need to read more closely. I forget my car had the front header that hangs ALL the way down and blocks access and you don't. Sorry my mistake, that'* what i get for rushing. Sorry again!

Yes I did. And if it was low, I don't think I'd be getting power to the compressor, as I mentioned in the OP. I believe the low pressure switch cuts power to the compressor.

I'm going to drop it off today and have the shop look at it. I think it will either be the clutch coil, or the clutch as worn and is too far from the coil to be engaged. Either way should be a simple $150 fix.

Thanks for the responses.
-Ryan