Mine did the same thing a few weeks ago, except I didn't notice any noise or power loss, just loss of AC. about 400 miles later I got home, and discovered the compressor is totally kaput, if there was plastic around the wires going to the clutch, there isn't anymore.

Get in touch with ROLLGUY about one of his sanden brackets, ditch the ancient R4 while you have the perfect opportunity!

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1982 300D (w123, "Grey Car")
1982 300D (w123, "Blue Car")
2001 Ford F150 "Clifford" (The Big Red Truck)
1997 Dodge Ram 2500 12V Cummins
1996 Dodge Ram 2500 12V Cummins
Previous Vehicles:
1995 E300D, 1980 300SD, 1992 Buick Century, 2005 Saturn Ion