A/C compressor perhaps?

[Sorcier11]

Hello.
I have this squealing happening in the engine bay and judging by the sound, it's in the area of the water pump and the A/C compressor. When I turn the A/C on, the sound disappears. When the A/C is off, the squealing returns.

I would imagine that the pulley bearing is going on the compressor. I checked older posts and there are references to the clutch on the compressor that may need replacement in various circumstances. I have the 3.1 on my 1997 GA SE. Is it fairly easy and inexpensive to replace the clutch and based on the description above (squeal disappearing when the A/C is engaged), would it be the clutch?

Thanks for any information you can provide.

[mikem220153]

I would have say it is the clutch. If the noise goes away when you engage the AC compressor, it would indicate the compressor bearings are OK. I would change the clutch.

[Sorcier11]

is that an easy task? I know that I'd be looking at supporting the engine by the oil pan, disconnecting the bolts that support the engine, release the belt and proceed but... is the clutch mostly a bolt on affair as long as I can reach it somehow?

Thanks again....

[Bandit]

Interesting. I also have this problem. I replaced the entire compressor 2 years ago but the problem has returned. What is involved in this job?

[ejb3232]

I had the same exact thing happen to me last year and it was my bearings. It only squeeled when i didnt have the air on. I didnt the job bu my buddy who did said it was not that easy.