AC Clutch Zip Tie Problem

jonesboy1983 · Post by **jonesboy1983** » 30 May 2017, 13:51

I have a pretty dumb question I hesitate to ask. I have the AC clutch gap problem on my 1996 850 Turbo. I have read about using zip ties and bread clips to fix the gap but I really have a hard time wedging into my compressor like I see done on all the guides and pictures. Can someone tell me how you actually go about getting the zip ties into the little rings on the compressor. I can't seem to wedge a normal screwdriver in there to create any space for the zip tie. Am I just using too big a screw driver? It seems to me like the rings would break even if I could get one in there. I'm just really having trouble I have spend 45 minutes to an hour on a couple of occasions trying to do this and I have had to resort to bread clips instead which I also can't get into the compressor without a lot of effort/swearing etc. I go at it from the bottom but there isn't much room. Do you guys put the car on ramps? I feel like I am missing something since people talk about his being a 15 minute thing. Thanks.

Post by **erikv11** » 30 May 2017, 15:39

It is a hassle to do but not bad once you get the hang of it. So, it sounds like you are doing it right. I don't remember the exact method I have just figured it out each time it needs to be done. For sure put it up on ramps, then go at it from the bottom. Get a drop light under there and approach from just the right angle. Wedge in a narrow screwdriver, then force-thread the zip tie through. One down, two more to go.

jonesboy1983 · Post by **jonesboy1983** » 05 Jun 2017, 11:14

Thanks. Putting it up on ramps helped a lot... just shows being lazy can actually compound your work. I also used a smaller utility screwdriver like Robert uses in his videos and I was able to make short work of this. Hopefully these last longer than the bread clips did.

Post by **99TurboBrick** » 17 Sep 2020, 18:51

My two cents to add for any future readers: Use the smallest utility screwdriver you can find. If that doesn't widen the area enough to fit a zip tie, you can then progress to a slightly larger screwdriver after the first one is put in.

Tapping the screwdriver in with a small hammer helps.