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why do auto A/C compressor lock-up

Sent to Car Experts May 30 2006 at 10:24 PM
   

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Optional Information:
1994 Toyota celica 1.8

Already Tried:
A/C EVACUTE AND RECARGE R-134

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
May 31 2006 at 12:20 AM (1 hour and 56 minutes and 34 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark

Hello Customer (name blocked for privacy), If the compressor locks up when engaged it means the clutch bearing is worn and requires replacement.I would recommend you call at least 3 different repair shops for a quote on rebuilding the compressor and also check your local salvage yards for a used one which may end up costing you much less.

Here are the general instructions for replacing it yourself:

CAUTION

Only EPA-certified technicians can purchase R-12 refrigerant, since proper recovery and recycling techniques are required to prevent damaging the environment. Improper disposal of R-12 refrigerant can result in a fine.

NOTE

A system with R-12 refrigerant can be retrofit to use R-134A refrigerant.


Images available only to Customers.



Parts of the clutch and compressor.

Compressor
  • Purge the system of refrigerant (If your car uses R-12 refrigerant, this step should be perform by an EPA-certified technician for proper recovery and recycling).
  • Disconnect the battery ground cable.
  • Remove the inlet and outlet hoses or the service valves from the compressor.
  • Remove the clutch lead wire.
  • Loosen and remove the belt(s).
  • Remove the mounting bolts from the compressor brackets and braces and lift the compressor from the car.
Clutch Shaft Seal
  • Using snap-ring pliers, remove the seal retaining snap ring.
  • Remove the seal seat using the seal seat remover and installer.
  • Remove the seal, using the seal remover tool.
  • Remove the shaft seal seat O-ring using the O-ring remover.
  • Flush the seal cavity with refrigeration oil.
  • Coat the new seal parts with refrigeration oil.
  • Install the new shaft seal O-ring. Make sure it is properly seated in the internal groove. Use the remover tool to position the O-ring properly.
  • Install the seal protector or dust cover on the compressor crankshaft.
  • Lubricate the part liberally with clean refrigeration oil.
  • Place the new shaft seal in the seal installer tool and carefully slide the shaft seal into place in the inner bore.
  • Rotate the shaft seal clockwise until is seats on the compressor shaft flats.
  • Rotate the tool counterclockwise until it seats on the compressor shaft flats.
  • Rotate the tool counterclockwise to remove the seal installer tool.
  • Remove the the shaft seal protector.
  • Place the shaft seal seat on the remover/installer tool and carefully reinstall in the compressor seal cavity.
  • Replace the seal seat retainer.

A/C Clutch Operation: Images available only to Customers.

An electromagnetic clutch used to engage and disengage the compressor, to turn the air conditioner on and off.

The average cost of the clutch on that is $80-$110.

Hope this clears some things up for you.Please click my accept button if this answers your question.Thanx,Customer (name blocked for privacy) and good luck.



Edited by railman on May 31 2006 at 12:35 AM



"It is much wiser and cost efficient to ask a question than to stumble blindly through your auto repairs".Please Click Accept if my answer was helpful.
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