Hi everyone, I've got a 90 crx dx. I am getting ready to replace the clutch on my matsushita Ac compressor but I notice that spinning the clutch plate on the junk yard compressor has a little bit of resistance, something like the feel of hand cranking an engine but obviously smaller. The one in my car turns smoothly and completely free of resistance. My question is, which spindle do you think is more likely to be functioning properly. The reason is I'd hate to switch just the clutch and find out the entire compressor is bad and on the other hand I don't want to buy a 134A retrofit o-ring kit and install it if my existing compressor is fine. Any insight and help very appreciated. Thanks

 

How old is the compressor? There should be some resistance to the compressor when spinning by hand. If the compressor is a 1990 deal,Id replace it and not waste time with the clutch....

 

Nearly all compressors will have minimal resistance when used, but there are a few notable exceptions. The Ford FS10 has a preload roller assembly that makes the unit feel like it is locked up solid, this is normal, new or used.

In the case of this compressor, you have worn bores and rotating parts. The big pulley matsushita's should rotate freely with little resistance, and certainly without any notching or compression feeling.