I'm getting my car ready for a cross country move. Normally I wouldn't consider the AC an essential thing to have working since I'm fine if the windows open. I have a passenger though, a Siamese cat, that's taking the trip in a pet carrier and I'm affraid open windows won't be enough. I can't afford a new compressor so I'm heading to the picknpull for a used. They don't allow batteries or jumpstarters in the gates and you have to pay extra to add a return policy to the part. I need to know that the compressor works before paying for it. Are there any bench tests I can do that doesn't require power?
Also, my current AC compressor technically works. The flywheel just has bad bearings, the clutch still engages. Is there a way to fix that without replacing the entire compressor? It wouldn't save me from tearing apart the serpentine. I have a bypass belt on now and once the compressor is done I'll have to put a full size belt back on. If I can replace the flywheel and not have to evacuate the system, that would certainly help.

 

you can replace the clutch assembly and other external parts, but shimming the clutch properly is kind of a pain imo.

 

Yes, you can remove the pulley and tap out the old bearing and freeze the new bearing and heat the pulley in an oven and the new bearing will drop right in.

You will need a spanner wrench to hold the pulley to remove the nut. Keep in mind the nut is righty loosey.

Make sure to torque the nut to spec.

Don't lose the clutch shims, they're easy to lose.

 

Bring along a batt operated tool, [9V or better] use the batt. in it to test the clutch, with the compressor out, plug the in and out holes with your fingers and turn the clutch clockwise, if you feel suction on one and pressure on the other it is a good indication the compressor is good.

Stick your nose up to the discharge hole and turn the clutch and smell, if it smells like turpentine, it is a contaminated compressor, find another one.

You said you have to pay extra for retuning something...
Pick-n-Pull » Policies or is it not a "PicknPull" 94

 

My understanding is that it's privately owned but licensed to use the name. They ignore those policies at their discretion. I've never has a problem bringing a motorcycle battery in before to do bench testing. They also have this dumb thing where they ask what you're looking to get before they let you in. Then they check your tools. If you have anything not needed to pull the part they won't let you take it in. It's a shame because I never know what might catch my eye that I wasn't planning to get. I'll bring the battery to my impact wrench. It's small enough to fit in my pocket and no one will know I have it. I'll probably load up on as many intact body fasteners as I can get my hands on. I get frustrated with those and end up tearing them out.

Replacing the whole compressor seems like less hassle than installing new bearings and flywheel. I appreciate all the input.

 

Meant to say never had a problem bringing a battery in untill about 2 years ago. I tried editing my post but honda-tech loads really slow for me because of where I live (very edge of service range) and doesn't always let me edit as a result.

 

I would write/email PicknPull and complain, maybe they can force a change in policy.

Like you I never know what I may find that I want, so I will bring the tools I need for what I am looking for, but I also bring most every thing I need for anything else.

Seems kind of dumb on their part to limit you on "impulse" buys, by limiting the tools you can take into the yard, also making you pay extra for a return policy is just gouging.

I am guessing they are the only game in town, or within range. 94