AC clutch problems

[redrumrevolution1]

My believe my AC clutch went bad on my 04 ram 5.7. The AC do not blow cold at all. It all started after this grinding noise coming from under the while the truck was idling at a light. When look under the hood, I checked the compressor and in the middle of it there a black ring, which I believe is the clutch bearing. It is half way shredded up. Im low on fund so I believe its best for me to change the clutch instead of the whole compressor. Plus, it is possible to change the clutch while all the ac line still hooked up right? Can give me the procedure to changing the AC clutch on my truck?

 

[MegaMouseGW]

Yeah sounds like the clutch went out. No sure if it can be changed though. Might want to look it up on YouTube to see if anyone posted a video of themselves doing it.

 

[redrumrevolution1]

Nothing. I looked already, but thanks

 

[HolyRamBatman]

Found 1 video for ya.


AC compressor clutch replacement - YouTube


It's not a Ram a/c but should work.

 

[MegaMouseGW]

I do know that some vehicle's AC clutches cannot be changed. They are put on in such a way that the consumer cannot remove and replace them. Looked at my Trucks AC last night and it looks like it can be changed out, but seeing as mine is working fine I am not messing with it.

 

[redrumrevolution1]

Here's a pic of the compressor

 

[BigSloth]

Some can be changed, some can't. I can't tell from the pic but if there is a bolt or torx bit in the center then it can most likely be changed. Most compressors use a bolt to hold the clutch plate to the shaft, then Snap rings for the rest. You're gonna need Snap ring pliers and a clutch hub puller. Unless you're confident you can Pry it off without damaging the compressor shaft. Pull the clutch plate, then remove the Snap ring inside, remove the hub, then the backing plate.

No you don't have to evacuate the refrigerant.

 

[jdmart0]

AC Clutch

I had the clutch gone bad. it basically burned off and it was just dangling. They do not sell it by itself, had to buy a new compressor and swapped it while being away from home. The old compressor seems to be in working condition. I was just wondering if anyone had found an aftermarket clutch?

 

[SilverStreak88]

I had the clutch gone bad. it basically burned off and it was just dangling. They do not sell it by itself, had to buy a new compressor and swapped it while being away from home. The old compressor seems to be in working condition. I was just wondering if anyone had found an aftermarket clutch?

No clutch options, you have to get the whole compressor. I just spent $400 on A/C parts last night to get mine going so... if the clutch is/has gone, it's better to replace the entire unit as when the clutch goes it usually causes internal damage like what happened to me.