04 Sierra AC issue

[CJS]

New to this forum and looking for info.
My AC was working fine a while back then I noticed a burning rubber smell while driving. I can't remember if I had the AC on at the time. Once I figured it out I found that the AC belt was the burning smell. I removed it and replaced and it happened again. Finally I removed the clutch and found that the bearing in the clutch assembly was toast. I tried to just get a new bearing but it was about half the cost of a new clutch. After talking to a mechanic friend he said many times you replace the clutch only to find that the compressor was the problem which means the clutch was a waste of money.

Has anyone else had this issue? My AC was working fine before this happened and the clutch bearing was clearly worn out.

 

[Molson02536]

New to this forum and looking for info.
My AC was working fine a while back then I noticed a burning rubber smell while driving. I can't remember if I had the AC on at the time. Once I figured it out I found that the AC belt was the burning smell. I removed it and replaced and it happened again. Finally I removed the clutch and found that the bearing in the clutch assembly was toast. I tried to just get a new bearing but it was about half the cost of a new clutch. After talking to a mechanic friend he said many times you replace the clutch only to find that the compressor was the problem which means the clutch was a waste of money.

Has anyone else had this issue? My AC was working fine before this happened and the clutch bearing was clearly worn out.

A worn bearing will cause the pistons and crank shaft in the compressor to wear out which will cause the compressor to fail. Better to replace the whole unit with a rebuilt compressor.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Molson02536

 

[CJS]

A worn bearing will cause the pistons and crank shaft in the compressor to wear out which will cause the compressor to fail. Better to replace the whole unit with a rebuilt compressor.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Molson02536

If I order a new compressor from somewhere like RockAuto what other parts do I need to order to swap it out? I'll get the system drained but I'm not paying to have someone remove and reinstall it. Also I found some information regarding the ac compressor that said you should be able to turn the compressor by hand and if you can then the clutch bearing could be the only problem. I don't doubt your knowledge I'm just trying to avoid spending the 200 on the compressor plus the cost of the drain and re charge of the system if possible.

Thanks for the help its greatly appreciated!!

 

[dirtclod]

Most companies won't warranty a compressor unless you buy the whole kit, which includes a system flushing agent. It cost me $400 about 1 1/2 yrs ago. The reasoning is because it's possible to have debris circulating through the system, and lead to another failed compressor.

 

[Molson02536]

Most companies won't warranty a compressor unless you buy the whole kit, which includes a system flushing agent. It cost me $400 about 1 1/2 yrs ago. The reasoning is because it's possible to have debris circulating through the system, and lead to another failed compressor.

Its also a good practice to replace the Accumulator when you replace the compressor, and they don't cost to much to replace. Make sure the system is vacuumed out properly and that the Tech takes his time to ensure there are no moisture in the system.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Molson02536