190e A/c

yesterday my A/C gave me trouble, for the first time. It was working perfectly, when it suddenly switched off (going at 70mph). If I switch off the ignition and start again, the A/C does come on, but only for a few seconds. Then I can hear a loud grinding noise from the front, the engine rpm drops a lot, then the A/C switches off. This happened a few times, then I stopped trying - didn't want to damage anything else. The car is otherwise fine - just had the 30,000 mile service done.

what could it be - how expensive. Car is 85 190E 2.3 (132K), so I am not going to spend much more money on it. I live in Cleveland anyway, so can do without an A/C.

thanks.

As I read your message it does not sound good. You need to first inspect the belt and then remove the belt and turn the compressor by hand with the clutch engaged and engine NOT running.

Good luck,

If I just don't switch the A/C on, any harm in running the car like that? If the A/C compressor is siezed up, can I do damage by just running the car?