My ac compressor is getting very noisey. It still blows cold so I really don't want to replace the compressor. Is it possible to replace the clutch on the car?

 

since its winter, you might consider installing a shorter belt which bypasses the compressor

this has been discussed on this forum several times in the past.

a Search of the forum would tell you which belt would work.

 

Where are you located? It helps to know your climate. See comment in my signature line.

Yes you can replace the A/C clutch without removing the compressor. I've done it.

Due to the cost of a new clutch compared to a new compressor, I've found very good clutches and compressors in salvage yards on wrecked cars.

I once purchased a compressor for some price like $40 from a wrecked 1996 model, removed the clutch, and pitched the compressor because it would not fit my 99 model.

I watched this Altima video to learn how to do the job. Removing the clutch on one of our cars is actually easier than the video because you should not need to cut any bolts to remove the clutch. You do need a good pair of "snap ring" pliers.

Part 1


Part 2

 

Thx for the informative videos.

 

Putting on a shorter belt to avoid the A/C pulley will decrease the usefulness of your defroster in the Winter - which really lowers the effectiveness of the defroster when you are in full defrost more - right most button on my manual HVAC.

So, depending on where you live, you may want to think this thru fully.

 

I'm currently bypassed.. Located in Chicago.. No problems with defroster