Driving my '99 today and heard a loud grinding noise when I turned on the a/c. Yesterday it was working fine. Got to stop light and thought I saw smoke from engine compartment. Turned off the a/c and drove to nearest parking lot. Opened the hood, turned a/c on and a spark shot out from the clutch. I can hear a click when I turn on the a/c so I'm thinking the clutch bearing went. I can see no refridgerant leaks. Is there a way to figure out if it's the clutch and not the condensor or should I just replace the entire unit?

 

Clutch is slipping, it can be adjusted, if it is a clutch gap issue, if on the other hand it is a restriction, [defective expansion valve, most common] then clutch is slipping because of high head pressure and expansion valve needs replacing.

A set of A/C gauges is need to pinpoint the problem.

A clutch gap problem is also fairly common and can be fixed, but may require the removal of the compressor, if you can remove the clutch plate without removing the compressor, you would save on a recharge.

To adjust clutch gap, remove clutch plate then remove one of the spacer shims, [washers].

If the bearing is gone then a new compressor is the way to go, a clutch assembly can cost as much as a compressor you can get an OEM compressor, new or reman from your local auto parts store, or Performance Radiator.

What is the MM&Y and trim level/engine size of your car. 94

 

Here's pictures of the compressor clutch and one from the junkyard I got today. There's a ring of black goop around the clutch. It feels like soft rubber. 1999 Accord with 250k, 2.3L.