2002 AC compressor clutch locks up

wrinkles · 04-01-2009, 02:54 PM

Here's a bit of history, about 3 months ago my AC stopped cooling. I let it go because it was cold enough that I didn't need to check the freon level.

So jump forward to last week, it's hot and I turn on the AC, so I can check the freon level and fill it if need be. As I'm getting ready to put freon in, the clutch starts to sqeak and then about a minute later the clutch locks up. I waited a few minutes and started the AC again with the same results, after about 5 min the clutch locks up. I then put a can of AC oil and ran the AC for about 30 min with no problems. It's still not cooling but it's not locking up. I decide to wait on the freon refill.

Now jump to this week I decide to give the freon fill up another try. I start the AC and sure enough it's low so I put in just enough to make the level right. About 3 minutes after finishing the freon refill the AC clutch locks up again.

Is this the compressor locking up?

Time for a new compressor or is there a rebuild kit i can get?

I did notice that one of the AC lines going to the compressor was covered in an oil like substance so I'm thinking there's a leak.

tlstotelmyer · 04-01-2009, 04:14 PM

The clutch is supposed to lock up when the a/c is on now if you mean the pully and the clutch locks up and the belt is sitting there smoking and squealing than is time for a new compressor. I just bought a used one from a junkyard that ships anywhere in the US. Compressor was $40 and shipping was $15 plus it's has a warranty. If you want more info PM me.

wrinkles · 04-01-2009, 04:37 PM

Sorry, yes that's what I meant. The clutch locks and the belt sqeals and smokes.

Thanks.

kiaracer · 04-02-2009, 04:29 PM

time for a new compressor. did you happen to put any PAG oil into the system when you charged it?