Ac Pulley and Clutch

[GixxerSteph]

I discovered this weekend that my AC pulley and clutch on my 1999 3.8 may need to be replaced. When the AC is on, the noise goes away, when off, intermittently I get this annoying noise.
Is this something I can do myself? How big of a job is it? I got a quote for $500 to fix it so I'm kinda trying to get an idea form more experienced folks.

[98 3.8]

Re: Ac Pulley and Clutch

I replaced my AC compressor in about 45 minutes. The worst part of the job is getting the air out of the system before you fill it with the new freon. you have to do that with a vacuum.

[D_Fisher]

Re: Ac Pulley and Clutch

I just replaced my compressor 2 weeks ago myself. It was pretty straight forward. Make sure you replace any O-rings you expose and that there is A/C oil in the compressor.

[fatcat]

Re: Ac Pulley and Clutch

Is there any walk thru posted on here I can use?

[bigbrian442]

Re: Ac Pulley and Clutch

What kind of noise is it? the Harmonic balancers go bad and make noise too.

[fatcat]

Re: Ac Pulley and Clutch

I had it looked at they definately said it's the clutch it sounds like a grinding noise and turns off when the AC goes off

[kristen]

Re: Ac Pulley and Clutch

there are 3 bolts holding the comp. on there. 2 in the front, one in the back. make sure to take the belt off first.

[ssms5411]

Re: Ac Pulley and Clutch

I had the same problem with mine doing that, when the A/C was off the pulley for the clutch locked up and wouldn't turn. Ended up replacing the whole A/C and putting on a new belt since the other one was burnt from not running the A/C. I replaced it just for safety measures, also it was old. Good luck on yours.