Replacing a/c comp. clutch with compressor in vehicle? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

The Warden · #1 08-15-2004, 09:03 PM

Hello!

I've got bad news and worse news.

Bad news: I found that it looks like my a/c compressor clutch has partially come apart.

Worse news: I'm currently in the Mojave Desert

I can't get a good look at it at the moment, but it looks like there are 3 rivets or so holding the clutch to whatever it bolts on to

, and one or two of them have broken. This is leaving the clutch sitting there, but off-center, and it won't engage. Fortunately, it didn't take the belt or the pulley with it when it went.

Other than this, my a/c's been working as well as an R-134a conversion can (AFAIK, at least), other than a slight leak. So, I don't particularly want to take the compressor out unless I absolutely have to.

So, does anyone know if it's possible to replace the clutch while the compressor's installed on the engine? What tools are needed? (I'm assuming a puller of sorts, but how does it go back on?)

Thanks in advance!

whunter · #2 08-15-2004, 09:41 PM

Here is a little extra help if you need it.
http://www.aircondition.com/

Tools:

http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/CPS-CTK1300A.html
CPS Products CTK1300A
Deluxe A/C Compressor Clutch Tool Kit
Order# CPSCTK1300A
$124.95 List Price
$55.62 On Sale!
• Combo installer/remover tools
• Service manual with ID chart, air gaps, and torque specs included.
• FREE Universal Spanner Wrench included.
• Removes/Installs: GM R4, A6 SAE; GM V5, DA6 HRG Metric; Ford FS6/Chrysler C171; Hitachi MJ/Tecumseh; Nippondenso 6P/10P. Also Removes: Sanden SD 5 & 7; Zexel (Diesel Kit)

http://www.acsource.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=71&MMP=1
Master Clutch Service Tool Kit 91274
Part #91274
Price $335.75
Detailed Description
This Master Set contains all the tools needed to service clutches on the following compressors:
General Motors A6, R4, and DA6
6 Pole R4, V5 and HR-6
Ford FS6
Chrysler C171
Nippondenso 6P 148A
Sanden 507, 508 and 510
Pitts and Warner clutches
Contains the following items:
90291 Coil Puller Jaws
90292 Coil Installer
90343 Compressor Holding Fixture & Hardware
90346 Rotor & Bearing Pilot
90349 Clutch Assembly Installer
90443 Pulley Bearing Remover & Driver
90451 Pulley Arbor
90452 Pulley Removal Jaws
90455 Pulley Removal Pilot
90456 Pulley Hub Removal Pilot
90457 Puller Body
90903 External Retaining Ring Pliers
91012 Shaft Protector Pilot
91022 Rotor & Bearing Puller Jaws
91023 Rotor & Bearing Puller Arbor
91047 Tool Box
91058 Pulley Remover Jaws
91059 Bearing & Pulley Installer
91146 Feeler Gauge Set
91183 A/C Service Manual
91216 Coil Installer Tie Bolt Set
91218 GM Compressor Test Plate
91261 Holding Fixture and Hardware
92210 Clutch Bearing Staking Tool

http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/AP-7886.html
Astro Pneumatic 7886
A/C Compressor Clutch Installer/Remover Kit
Order# AP 7886
$57.30 List Price
$32.23 On Sale!
A/C Compressor Clutch Installer/Remover Kit
• Replaces clutches found on FS6, C171, 6P & 148 compressors GM R4 & A6, HR-6, DA-6 & V5 A/C compressors, Sanden compressors SD505, 507, 510, 575, 708 & 709
• 2 & 3 hole puller plate fits most clutches, mechanical force does the pulling
• Blow molded case for easy storage and transport
• Case Dimensions: (L)9” x (W)8” x (H)2”
• Net Weight: 3lbs. (1.36kg)

engatwork · #3 08-15-2004, 09:46 PM

whunter - that should be the R4 compressor.

Was your answer a yes or no to changing the clutch while the compressor is still in the car?

whunter · #4 08-15-2004, 09:54 PM

Yes, it can be replaced in the car.
It is no fun in desert heat.
If you slip, you'll need band-aids and a radiator.

TwitchKitty · #5 08-15-2004, 10:45 PM

A lot of compressors get replaced because it is not much more trouble or expense to replace both than to replace just the clutch. Personally I don't care for that approach but I thought I would mention it.

Tirebiter · #6 08-16-2004, 02:03 AM

I saw a tool today at Kragen Auto Parts to R&R the GM style A/C clutch. $20.

CHAPP · #7 08-16-2004, 04:31 AM

A compressor going bad can cause a clutch to go first. I replaced the clutch (on the car) and 2 weeks later had to replace the compressor.

Eric Eliel · #8 08-16-2004, 12:28 PM

Yes you can replace the clutch while its in the car. Can you find the correct clutch that does goes to that compressor at a reasonable price is another issue.

The Warden · #9 08-19-2004, 06:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CHAPP

A compressor going bad can cause a clutch to go first. I replaced the clutch (on the car) and 2 weeks later had to replace the compressor.

What do you think the chances of this are? Short of putting a replacement clutch on and waiting for the compressor to fail, is there a way to reliably diagnose a dying compressor with the clutch out of whack?

I may just summarily replace the compressor, as I'm starting to think that the compressor may have been on its way out (explaining my declining fuel mileage, referenced in another post)...which is making me start to think that I may need to flush out the whole system (and maybe put in a parallel-flow condenser

); I'm starting to think that the p/o of my car did a "Black-Death-Kit" conversion as opposed to doing it right as I thought he had. In addition, it sounds like you can get a compressor with clutch for not much more than just getting the clutch.

Now, Fastlane's saying that the a/c compressor's not currently available...are there any suggestions on where to get a replacement? I'm on a shoe-string budget, although I won't be replacing it until after I get home...

Thanks again!