So, in the 90+ degree heat I had the AC on. When waiting to turn into Ikea the AC started making the worst sound known to man. Shut the vehicle off and it sat for 1 hour+ while we shopped. When I returned the noise had disappeared but the AC no longer blew cold. Now when I turn the AC on, I get no cold air to either the front or rear and the same noise. The compressor engages (audibly) and I tried to add freon but it would not accept. So...compressor or belt?

Thanks in advance,

Mitchell

 

Most likely compressor / compressor clutch. The scream was the belt pulling over a locked up compressor pulley. If it was any other pulley the noise would still be there, or the frozen pulley would throw the belt off.

 

Do I trust advise from a tech fan? Hmmm.

 

It's worse - I work there. To maintain balance wifey got masters and doctorate from Georgia, every game day is great except that grudge match every year....

 

Worse than this? (Sorry, I couldn't resist. )‪Wanna hear the most annoying sound in the world?‬‏ - YouTube

OK, on a more serious note...this would be my first thought too, but wouldn't the pulley/compressor most likely remain locked and thus the sound would continue?

 

If the problem is internal in the compressor, it is going to make a noise while the clutch pulley is engaged, spinning the compressor shaft. When the A/C is off, and the clutch is disengaged, it might make no sound, as the pulley is now free spinning.

 

damn!!!! beat me too it

 

And a set of guages will show you what is going on, if a "click" is heard, but no changes on guages, then compressor is not doing the job. From what you describe, I would expect both high and low side to be about equal, and they don't change very much when AC is turned on. Once on another brand of vehicle with same problem I saw the belt actualy melted on the pulley, bubbling rubber goop.

 

try disconnecting the power source to the compressor clutch (a plug next to the pully), that will allow the clutch to spin free of the compressor crank shaft. if there is no noise you need a new compressor.If it still makes noice after the clutch is unplugged then you need a new compressor clutch.