How important is the AC compressor?
Thread Starter
CF Veteran
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 3,404
Likes: 1
From: Albuquerque, NM
Year: 1995
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
MY clutch is not engaging and i know ill have to replace it. idk if I'm okay driving around without it, and if its gunu hurt me not fixing it this second.
Seasoned Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 262
Likes: 1
From: Montana
Year: 2000
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
As long as it is just the clutch dont worry about having to replace it, just unplug it so it doesnt run when you use the defroster. But make sure the bearings in the front are OK, I thought my clutch was going out and it was the whole pulley making racket rubbing on the face of the pump. You can get a bolt in pulley setup in place of the pump for cheaper than a new pump if need be.
Thread Starter
CF Veteran
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 3,404
Likes: 1
From: Albuquerque, NM
Year: 1995
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
mmm must not be my compressor then. My 95 XJ it makes a loud noise near the compressor when I'm driving it comes on at idle and goes away when i drive. Something is making a bad smell, like burning rubbery stuff, burnt popcorn. thought it was the compressor, but i guess not.
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Junior Member
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 87
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From: West Springfield, MA
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 864
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From: Arlington, Texas
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Thread Starter
CF Veteran
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 3,404
Likes: 1
From: Albuquerque, NM
Year: 1995
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Originally Posted by Xjkate
i love the bypass pully! looks so much nicer. who needs ac anyway?! lol
Junior Member
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 87
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From: West Springfield, MA
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Originally Posted by macgyver35
Any of us that live in Texas for sure!

Having 3 months of 100+ degree days last year was no picnic. As I've stated before, I'll give up radio, power steering, and rear brakes before I give up A/C!!
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,012
Likes: 1
From: NC/SC
Year: 1990
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
As far as the AC is concerned, it should not be an issue to drive around with aslong as you dont mind well no AC. As long as the clutch is not locked up you should be fine driving around like it is. If its making a funny burnt smell and squealing, Id check your alternator. The ball bearings in them sometimes fall out causing it to squeal like a pig. If it locks up intermediately it can cause the belt to heat up and burn a bit. It could also be your water pump going out.



this is my ac, the 440. 4 doors off 40 mph haha. Mine hasnt worked since i bought it. going to be converting the compressor for OBA