'00 Civic LX. 228,000 miles

More than likely the original compressor since I got the car about 7 years ago with ~90k on the clock. I did replace the clutch (aftermarket) a few years back, everything was moved over to my B20Z swap May 2012/42k ago.

So the clutch chirps on engage and occasionally the belt squeals a little from time to time. Tension is in spec, tensioner pulley was brand new at time of swap. I notice there is a significant amount of clutch residue in the general area:



(Sorry, tough spot to get a pic...also, ignore the crud above. PS pump was weeping and has since been rebuilt)

AC blows as cold as ever, pressures are good to go as well.

I'm apprehensive to replace the whole compressor (unless it's about to grenade) as I'm not super familiar with what the good options are for a replacement, except that an OE reman from Majestic, et al, is ~$350. I don't really feel like going the questionable Chinese replacement route, even though the one on my girlfriend's VW has been great so far.

Should I roll the dice and throw a clutch at it or just replace the whole thing? Or am I missing something else? Any recommendations for aftermarket replacements?

 

not sure what the issue is but if you want to replace get a Denso reman from rockauto and make sure to google search "rockauto coupon code" beforehand

 

Quick question does anyone know if the ac kit off a 96 to 98 civic hatch would fit a 2000 civic hatch??

 

^ Threadjack, but yes.

The issue is just that I am trying to decide if it's a compressor going out or just a clutch going out.

I looked at Rockauto before I posted and didn't see anything desirable, now that I look again I see that I clicked on the kits tab and not just the compressor. I see the Denso now, I think I might just grab one next week. I only need that and a reciever/drier, I already have all the other stuff around and don't need to replace the valve since nothing has come apart.

Thanks.

 

Easiest check is to take the belt off and spin the clutch pulley. If it makes noises then there you go, replace the clutch. If it doesn't then spin the clutch itself and check the compressor out. Pretty easy.

 

Derr. Good call, not sure why I didn't do that sooner. Will have to wait now, this weekend is up and next is already claimed.

 

if the clutch is going out it will intermittently stop engaging altogether ... simply chirping doesnt indicate a failing clutch ... sounds more like your belt is too loose the clutch is going to make a noise when it engages

 

Right, I get that. That's why I'm a apprehensive to just throw parts at it. I know for a fact that the belt is correctly tensioned though, I'm starting to think that the compressor is just beginning to drag a bit. I need to dig into it a bit more.

 

A clutch going bad doesn't mean it will kick on and off. That is only one of a few problems they can develop... bearings, pins, wiring, solenoid, etc. can all fail. The compressor can be bearings, the pump, or seals. Many different components here.

 

Chirping or squealing mostly occurs after the winter months, when the springs in the clutch loosen or fail due to rusting, causing noise until at least the rust wears off. The metallic residue is evidence of this fact, and can be witnessed on many cars with a low mounted compressor. Once the gap opens up between the pulley and clutch, it will engage but fail to grab the pulley, which can result in noise as well. I have noted a number of idler bearings fail and producing tremendous noise. I would suggest first removing the belt, and inspecting the feel/looseness of the pulleys. Replace as required.

It is necessary to note that the compressor and clutch systems are independent of one another. The clutch failing does not condemn the compressor outright, although logic would dictate to replace the compressor and clutch at the same time due to cost.

If you are willing to replace the clutch ensure the front end nut is serviceable, as if you break it off you might as well buy a new one just to save inconvenience.

 

I have a question? How old is the belt? As they age belts become brittle and will fail to grip as they should.
Regards
Dave