Thread: WTF!! "broke" my car turning on the A/C??

Okay...so 99% of the time I drive around with all my windows down, breathing in that fresh windsor/detroit air , today it got up to 101*F and I finally gave in and turned on the A/C. Decided to put the windows back down, and turned the A/C off, when I did, this weird "screeching" sound started, sounds like metal on metal. When I turned the A/C back on it takes about a second for the fan to kick in, but as soon as it does, the screeching sound stops....starts again when I turn the A/C off again. Sounds like it's coming from the belt area, I have NO idea why this is happening.
Anyone know what's going on here??

ac compressor clutch not disengaging?

Originally Posted by gtp239

ac compressor clutch not disengaging?

If that's the case, how can I fix it?

remove the belt and hand turn the a/c pulley, see if its locked up or flapping loose.

you may need a a/c clutch or the whole compressor. if the a/c is still working you could just swap the clutch but im sure you still need to drain the Freon and and refill it when done.

Someone had a small debate a while back about replacing the clutch or replacing the unit as a whole. Turned out to be easier and roughly the same price just to put a new compressor (or a good used one) on. So a new compressor should do it. If that is indeed the problem.

its certainly a lot easier to change the whole compressor, vs the clutch swap, the clutch is a real pita if you dont have the right tools and have not done it before.

you may even be able to work out a deal with a local shop to vac your system, hold it for ya, and refill when you are done. they can re use your old refrigerant, and pump it back into your a/c, after you swap the compressor or clutch.

I was looking at my a/c clutch while the car was on the lift at work and it looks like you should have room to remove the clutch with the compressor on the car. You do need an a/c clutch removal and installation tool tho.

Thanks everyone, going to drive with the a/c on for now and get on this problem as soon as funds let me.