AC Compressor Noise
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 254
Likes: 0
From: Great Falls MT
AC Compressor Noise
This is driving me nuts. On the front of the ac compressor is a spring loaded plate that's making a jingling/rattling noise. Very annoying on an otherwise sweet sounding engine! Has anyone else experienced this and what can be done about it? This is the stock unit.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,938
Likes: 65
From: Rochester Hills MI
Sounds to me like the compressor clutch bearing has gone out. same thing happened to me. best bet is to replace the compressor. You can check if this is the problem if the noise goes away when you turn on the ac. This is because the clutch is engaged, and the bearing is then no longer used. In order to fix the bearing, the compressor needs to be removed anyways. you also need a special GM tool to remove the clutch.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 254
Likes: 0
From: Great Falls MT
I replaced the belt tensioner last week for making it's own noise, but this is definitely coming from the front of the compressor. The noise is there with the ac on or off. I just read that these are known for being noisy if the clutch goes out of adjustment, so I guess I need to get that done. I'm leary of taking it to just any ac shop to have it worked on because it looks like they need to lift the car to do it. Has anyone else had this done?
Racer
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 268
Likes: 6
From: Barstow Ca
If the clutch locks up then you will have more problems than just a squeaky noise. You need to get it fixed asap. I've seen clutches lock up and it tears your belt off. The pieces could mess up your other belt and other things.
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Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 254
Likes: 0
From: Great Falls MT
Mine just makes a rattling noise all the time, ac on or not. I hear it when I drive next to a building or a guardrail. If it's sitting and idling I can hear it when I rev the engine just as I touch the pedal. I'm almost positive it's the AC hub. Seems you can't buy just the clutch assembly for these AC units, but the replacement price isn't too bad at $270 for a reman. I'm about to go out to the garage and get underneath for a better look...
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 254
Likes: 0
From: Great Falls MT
I got underneath to get a better idea of what was causing the noise and found out it was the belt tensioner! I'm a happy guy! A possible 600 dollar repair ended up costing me 25 bucks. Life is good.