I have a bad clutch on my ac compressor. I have been told conflicting stories. One being that I would have to replace the whole compressor, the other being that I can just replace the clutch assembly where the bad bearing is. Has anyone had experience with this? Any input would be greatly appreciated. Also, does anyone remember what size belt to use to bypass the ac compressor completely?

 

Let me also say that when my clutch is disengaged <AC OFF> I have a horrible grinding sound, but when my clutch is engaged <AD ON> the sound all but goes away.

 

this is your lucky day...
http://forums.maxima.org/showpost.ph...4&postcount=50

 

^^^ we'll there you go.

Any if that is too much work, it only takes about 45 mins to replace the whole A/C compressor. 4 bolts hold it in place, remove the two A/C lines.

 

I would advise against replacing the entire compressor unless it is damaged internally. aside from the extra $400+ for a new compressor, drier/filter & required recharge, there is considerable risk that the recharge may not be done correctly - infant mortality of replacement AC compressors is very high due to improper charging procedures (incorrect amount of oil, wrong oil type, failure to completely recover all old oil & refrigerant, failure to flush debris from the system, etc, etc). it is not a DIY job, and even shops often screw it up. too risky and too expensive when all that's needed is a new bearing.

replacing the bearing will take 1-2 hours for a novice, barring any unforeseen problems. I could do it again in 30 minutes. if you don't want to try it, just buy the bearing and take it to a local mechanic. negotiate a reasonable fee -- 1hr labor or $75. any competent mechanic with a press can do the whole job for that, you'll still save a lot of $$ and not have to worry about the recharge.

 

Awsome.........Thats what I was looking for. I can probably do it in a short time. My compressor is in fine working order, thats why I could'nt stomach replacing it for one ****ty little bearing. One more thing? Does that bearing have a number and where would be a good place to get it?

 

I got mine from partsamerica.com for $30. or you can order them from autozone for $50. but if I were to do it again I'd contact a machine parts or bearing supply company directly with the specs (40mm ID, 62mm OD, 24mm width). here's one such supply company that sells them for $19...
http://www.houstonbearing.com/defaul...de=DAC40620024

 

Thanks Sky!!! I just ordered it. I shall install it this weekend via your excellent write-up.

 

did you order from houston bearing? if so, could you post close up pics of it when you get it? the one from partsamerica had slightly wider inner race compared to the outer race, but it still worked. on the original they were the same width. so I'd be interested to see what houston bearing sells.
how much was shipping?

 

so 'opm45' were u successful in installing your new bearing??

 

I'm interested to know the best place to get these bearings. I've got the shorter belt on mine right now, so if I can find a replacement bearing, I can get my mechanic to install it and have A/C again for the summer.

If the PartsAmerica item isn't exactly right, has anyone successfully installed a HoustonBearing part?

I'd like to order it from somewhere in the next day or so.

 

I am also interested in replacing the bearing on my AC compressor. I noticed my compressor does not look like the one in skyjumper's thread. I notice 3 different bearings being sold for maximas on partsamerica.com.

Anyone know a way to identify the compressor? I couldn't find any numbers on the thing itself.


thanks!

 

I used the bearing from Houston Bearing supply. Worked like a charm. You just need someone to press it in for you unless you have a 10 ton press laying around.