LOUD A/C sqreach!

[rjhenely]

92 MTX 160,000mi. a/c just switched from old type freon to the new type. When a/c on and at idle, she works perfect. At RPM is about 2800 and up , the clutch makes a VERY LOUD sqreaching noise as it cycles on. Still blows very cold. Any ideas?? Over charged? Mechanic not put shims in? Clutch just plain worn out? Oh yea....car is new to me so I don't know how it ran before. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[SHO_Driver]

Hmmm, only screeches when its on? Then either the clutch or the pulley bearing is gone. If he hadn't put in shims the clutch would be turning all the time I'd think.

 

[SHO_Diehard]

Could be a loose drive belt. You might try tightening it and see what happens.

 

[JTSHO]

if its just as it cycles on, my 92 did that for a while when i switched i assumed it was the clutches not being used in so long it eventually went away, but if it hasnt gone away would say its out of adustment or clutch is just plain worn out. my 94 hadnt worked in years til i bought it and switched it too. it also did the same thing for a couple days.

 

[rjhenely]

Thanks a lot guys.... this gives me some specific things to look for. I'll let you know what happens.

 

[rangerj]

rj,

Check the gap between the cluch surfaces. It should be about .035. If the gap is between .025 and .040 it should be OK and is not the cause of the problem. Next, loosen the belt and check the pulley bearing. Does it spin freely and is it smooth. If it is rough or noisy the bearing is worn out.

While the belt is loose, or removed, put a wrench or socket on the end of the compressor. Turn the compressor clockwise. Does it turn smoothly with little resistance. If it is tight and/or hit a spot where it is stiff it may have internal problems. Note: you are going to get some resistance to being turned do to the normal compression. The compressor is tested for 84 inch pounds (7 ft. lbs.) of turning torque when it is not connected to the system, that is when the internal compression is not increased by the presence of the refrigerant. So, expect some resistance but it should be smooth.