AC Compressor Siezed, SAFE to Drive?
 

89 300E, the AC compressor siezed - clutch won't
turn, compressor won't engage. will not be able to replace compressor, etc. ( $1300 Canadian ) this summer.

car runs, belt moves freely. is it safe to continuously
drive this car?

You can still drive it, if you like, remove the AC compressor belt.

It's a 1 piece serpentine belt, so you can't remove it without sacrificing the fan, power steering, and more.

nthach, what is the danger if the belt and the drive wheels
of the compressor moves freely?

If the compressor clutch isn't engaging(and I doubt it is), your system is "free-wheeling".

Roll down the windows and enjoy the fresh air.

nothing. My dad's 1983 Toyota Cressida has a siezed compressor clutch, just the belt pulley spins, but the compressor clutch is fubar, it's been like that for 4 years :D

thanks to all!!

To be safe, remove the Klima relay or disconnect the low pressure wires from the dryer so the compressor doesn't try to engage if you inadvertently set the ACC to cool. That moment before the Klima relay realizes the compressor isn't spinning might be enough to throw off the belt.

Sixto
95 S420
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD

Sixto

Do you or someone have a picture of the receiver/dryer bottle with arrows pointing to the wires to be pulled? My AC compressors are fine, but it would be good to have it just in case.

Haasman

Dear Haasman:

THis picture from Thomaspin will show you exactly what wire to be pulled.

http://www.pindelski.com/cars/W126/Air_repair/imagepages/PIC00002d.html

Best regards,

Eric

Thanks Eric!

Haasman

excellent call, thanks!