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Bearing noise from AC compressor pulley

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Old 05-24-2017, 10:56 AM
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Default Bearing noise from AC compressor pulley

98 4.0

There has been a slow refrigerant leak in the AC compressor for quite some time now. Late in the summer last year, when the AC was turned on, it would occasionally make a pretty loud growling noise. Shut the AC off, everything is fine.

Just this past week, the pulley on the AC compressor is making a worn bearing noise, while the AC is off. Turn the AC on, same loud growling as last year. The pulley looks slightly wobbley when running with or without the AC.

My question, is the pulley/bearing itself replaceable or do I need a new AC compressor?

Also it appear there was something splashed on the compressor but it is completely solid. Looks like a liquid but it is solidified. Not sure if that has anything to do with anything. (picture included) Thanks in advance!
Old 05-24-2017, 11:21 AM
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If its leaking replace it with new comp with new clutch kill two bird one stone. If bearing locks up your stranded after serp belt melts.
Old 05-24-2017, 11:22 AM
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You can replace the pulley assembly. First, though, you might try unbolting the compressor and getting some lube in there. Lubricant doesn't seem to reach the inner bearing races unless you can tilt the compressor on its back.
Old 05-24-2017, 11:32 AM
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Originally Posted by alpine.adrenaline
You can replace the pulley assembly. First, though, you might try unbolting the compressor and getting some lube in there. Lubricant doesn't seem to reach the inner bearing races unless you can tilt the compressor on its back.



Just this past week, the pulley on the AC compressor is making a worn bearing noise, while the AC is off. Turn the AC on, same loud growling as last year. The pulley looks slightly wobbley when running with or without the AC.


Two different bearing here two differnt noises .
Old 05-24-2017, 11:41 AM
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If replacing the AC compressor, please tell me if I have the right list of parts.

Thinking of going new Denso Compressor w/clutch and oil - $231 from Advance with discount

O ring Kit

AC accumulator (need it for warranty)

There is also a $50 mail in rebate if I buy all the above parts and an "expansion device". Could someone tell me what an expansion device is?
Old 05-24-2017, 11:44 AM
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There is also still some refrigerant in it, so I am assuming I need to take that somewhere to be properly collected and then recharged after replacing parts.
Old 05-24-2017, 11:55 AM
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Originally Posted by rgr4475
If replacing the AC compressor, please tell me if I have the right list of parts.

Thinking of going new Denso Compressor w/clutch and oil - $231 from Advance with discount

O ring Kit

AC accumulator (need it for warranty)

There is also a $50 mail in rebate if I buy all the above parts and an "expansion device". Could someone tell me what an expansion device is?
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/...2Forifice+tube
Old 05-24-2017, 11:56 AM
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Originally Posted by rgr4475
There is also still some refrigerant in it, so I am assuming I need to take that somewhere to be properly collected and then recharged after replacing parts.
Correct...
Old 05-24-2017, 12:02 PM
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Originally Posted by freegdr
Correct...
Thank you!

Local shop wants just under $150 to remove than replace refrigerant after install. Common or high? I can't just fill it with cans right?
Old 05-24-2017, 12:11 PM
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Originally Posted by rgr4475
Thank you!

Local shop wants just under $150 to remove than replace refrigerant after install. Common or high? I can't just fill it with cans right?
That is on par to evacuate and recharge the system. That also includes a vacuum test to check for any leaks in the AC system. I would definitely recommend taking it to a shop vs doing it yourself, they will refill the system with the proper amount of refrigerant by weight and ensure the system is leak free.
Old 05-24-2017, 12:16 PM
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Originally Posted by LACK
That is on par to evacuate and recharge the system. That also includes a vacuum test to check for any leaks in the AC system. I would definitely recommend taking it to a shop vs doing it yourself, they will refill the system with the proper amount of refrigerant by weight and ensure the system is leak free.
Shops do more than just refill they vacuum system down to negative atmosphere to make sure its not leaking. If you can vacuum system down it can be filled with cans.
Old 05-24-2017, 12:16 PM
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Originally Posted by LACK
That is on par to evacuate and recharge the system. That also includes a vacuum test to check for any leaks in the AC system. I would definitely recommend taking it to a shop vs doing it yourself, they will refill the system with the proper amount of refrigerant by weight and ensure the system is leak free.
Thanks Lack, appreciate it.
Old 05-24-2017, 12:18 PM
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Originally Posted by rgr4475
Thank you!

Local shop wants just under $150 to remove than replace refrigerant after install. Common or high? I can't just fill it with cans right?
Make sure they dont charge you for freon the took out.
Old 05-24-2017, 12:18 PM
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Originally Posted by freegdr
Shops do more than just refill they vacuum system down to negative atmosphere to make sure its not leaking. If you can vacuum system down it can be filled with cans.
Isnt that what I just said?

Originally Posted by rgr4475
Thanks Lack, appreciate it.
No problem. Most things I would say tackle yourself, but there are some things I leave to the pros with the specialized tooling to do the job properly.
Old 05-24-2017, 12:22 PM
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Originally Posted by LACK
Isnt that what I just said?



No problem. Most things I would say tackle yourself, but there are some things I leave to the pros with the specialized tooling to do the job properly.
Yeah that was pretty much the plan just wanted to double check. Honestly, I almost want them to do the whole job but at $300+ for parts alone, it's going to be an expensive job if I let them do it all.

I've done every other repair on this jeep but for some reason, just don't feel like doing this one. haha



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