The clutch pulley on my air conditioning compressor is now rattling when the engine is idling. I was wondering if this indicates the clutch is worn out or something else. I have not tried turning on the A/C. I was wondering if it is safe to disconnect the belt from the engine that turns the compressor? I don't want to hear the noise and using the A/C is something I just don't use (windows always down). Removing the belt would definitely take an unnecessary load off the engine (one less pulley to turn). Would I lose defrost and other heater functions? The system is the original R-12 Harrison unit. I rather save my money and install a R-134a conversion kit on the car someday than source out more R-12.

Air Conditioning Clutch/Pulley
#3
Posted 17 June 2017 - 12:06 PM
I changed my 72 over to 134A and it worked OK with the A6 compressor. The A6 started leaking Freon at the seal for the clutch so I change out the A6 for an S6 compressor. The S6 is 54% lighter than the A6 and the pistons are Teflon coated. It works great and is cooler than it was with the A6 after my conversion to 134A
Larry E Gilbert
Markleville IN
"IF'n I had know retirement was this good I'd have done it a lot sooner"
#5
Posted 18 June 2017 - 11:14 AM
You can remove the belt and still have heat and defrost. Question: If you don't use the A/C now, why do the 134 conversion? Just curious
Me and my wife would like to eventually drive the car on longer road trips into warmer country. Right now we are just attending local events in 60-70 degree weather. I rather just save my money up and buy a new modern 134a system for the car. Having working A/C on the car is not a priority project on the Monte at this point. I just want to get rid of the annoying rattle sound from the pulley right now.
1971 Monte Carlo, #'s matching 350cid with TH350, Factory "Lime Green" with original "Antique White" painted top.
#6
Posted 18 June 2017 - 11:17 AM
If it's making noise when the A/C is not on (clutch not engaged) it's probably the compressor bearing.
That is what I am afraid of...........or worse, a bearing that seizes while the engine is running. I'm just going to disconnect the A/C belt.
1971 Monte Carlo, #'s matching 350cid with TH350, Factory "Lime Green" with original "Antique White" painted top.
0 user(s) are reading this topic
0 members, 0 guests, 0 anonymous users