So I believe my ac compressor is on its last leg. 2 weeks ago i had my belt fly off on the interstate, it ended up hitting my cooling fan, which then gave me no power steering and proceeded to run hot. i immediately pulled over to prevent excessive heat. so i replaced the following thinking it would fix the problem:

water pump, belt, fan, 3 new tensioner pulleys. refilled with new freon and it seemed to run great, up and down the block. this morning went out to top freon and noticed a loud screeching sound. this is the sound that i first heard before belt busted.

turns out the compressor is locking up. I'm guessing this was the original problem.

have any of you guys replaced a compressor and dryer hose, and is this something i should try to tackle. thanks for your help?

 

If you are certain about the compressor, you can replace it but you need to have the freon recycled. Just thinking green here. Lol

 

Plenty of compressors off of D2's at junk yards I've come across = still have freon in the system. So it's going to possibly gush out, but that's also good meaning the AC Compressor hasn't been sitting dry/open to the elements. Last time I priced one with a core from LKQ was 25.00.

 

How are you checking the amount of Freon in the system? A major cause of the compressor locking up is too much Freon in the system. Ask me how I know! I screwed up and added too much Freon a year and a half ago and the belt shredded after about three miles. The fact that the compressor locked up on you this morning after you "topped up" the Freon is a major indicator.


The best way to get the right amount is to evacuate the system and then add a measured amount (the weight specified on the sticker under the hood). Second best is with a good set of R134a hi/lo pressure gauges. Don't rely on the single, low-side gauge found on retail cans of R134a.


If you can't drive the truck to a shop you may be able to find a mobile mechanic to come to you. That's what I did. The guy came with all the right equipment and charged me ~$90, I recall. I know most of us are DIYers but for me charging the A/C is something I'm happy to pay for.

 

Have you checked the clutch pulley bearing for freezing up? Symptoms may be similar.
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