Not sure how compressor works, but I am assuming the there are 2 parts that spin separately.Can someone explain a bit.Mine spins all the time whether a/c is on or not.Also if I was to change or fix compressor I assume the a/c would have to be discharged, correct.

the compressor has a clutch on it that actuates to drive the shaft itself, when the compresseor cycles on and off you should be able to see the clutch actuation, but sometimes, actually seeing the inner shaft spin without witnessing a clutch cycle can be difficult

and yes, if you were to change teh compressor, you would need to have the system evacuated before serviceing..

John, Something doesn't sound right there. When you turn the a/c off, the a/c clutch should disengage. The clutch should be stationary (a/c compressor shaft) while the pulley is windmilling with the a/c turned off.

Well, it will still spin when the defrosters are on.

John--is the defroster on when you witness it spinning? With the HVAC controls in OFF, the clutch should not be engaged.

Just to clarify, if you are looking down from the top (with your head under the open hood) you more than likely are not going to be able to see the clutch.

If you were to sit on the ground facing the tire, looking at the 'front' of the engine you would be able to see the clutch plate, with the pulley spinning around it.

Jeff

I can see the whole compressor from the top and both are spinning with no defrost or a/c ,system is turned off , sometimes it sounds like a school bell as I mentioned before in a nother thread.Also if I look between the clutch and the front plate I can see tiny grinded steel filings like a magnet would pick up so something is wearing.What I am wondering is if I could change the clutch or bearing or something rather than pay for a compressor.thanksOh yeah forgot to add a/c blows hot or warm air.

The clutches can be changed seperately...however..I think there isn't enough room to service it on a car. Therefore it'* probably better to get a new compressor.

Thats alotta dough Billbo! I dont even use A/C I am a window guy it just bugs me cause it doesnt work, I pretty well fixed everything myself and all BC help so I thought I could give it a shot, maybe this http://www.klimesgroup.com/lshoc/lshoc/acclutch.htm
This is from Padget

Wow I dont know what I would do without A/C. My G/F is a windows open person too and I dont know how she does it.

I have a FSM now and it seems like it could also be a relay problem, where is the A/C relay located.