850 '96 A/C compressor

Tengu · Post by **Tengu** » 15 Mar 2009, 20:28

Not long ago, I started hearing a squealing/chirping sound coming from under my hood. After a new serpentine belt, a new water pump and timing belt, I figured out that it was my A/C compressor making all the noise. The belt wheel wiggles a bunch and I'm pretty sure the bearings are shot. Is there any way to fix this or replace the compressor without going to a repair shop or dealer? I'm thinking the freon might be a problem with doing a home repair.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 15 Mar 2009, 22:28

Welcome to MVS.
You can switch out the compressor yourself but you'll have to either evacuate the system yourself or have someone do it and then fill with the right amount of gas as well as some PAG oil you lost in the compression removal/evacuation procedure. AutoZone has an evacuation pump that they can rent to you if you're interested in doing this yourself.

Tengu · Post by **Tengu** » 15 Mar 2009, 22:47

I would much rather do it myself if it's possible. What kind of gas and oil does it need?

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 16 Mar 2009, 06:25

I'd have to look for the actual PAG weight...it comes in several. A couple of different compressors used in your car too- so I'd have to check on that. Also, I'd have to check on total Lbs of R-134A that goes in your system. Once you evacuate, it's really not the best to use the small cans of gas to fill it.

I'll Edit as I find info:
1. http://volvospeed.com/vs_forum/index.ph ... pic=101650
2. I think these pages answer your other questions: https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/ac_page.php and
https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... 2169#12169

Craigd2599 · Post by **Craigd2599** » 16 Mar 2009, 06:29

You might check to see if it's just the clutch assembly on that compressor. The wiggle in the pulley would indicate that. That is a replaceable part without removing the compressor.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 16 Mar 2009, 06:33

Craig, I hear you but he's getting squealing out of the pulley there and he doesn't mention the compressor cutting in and out- which would be typical of a clutch-gap issue.

C@lvin · Post by **C@lvin** » 16 Mar 2009, 11:27

Doesn't sound like the clutch gap issue to me either, BUT if it is, I am a huge fan of the 15 minute plastic bread clip fix, it's kept my two going for over a year now!

Tengu · Post by **Tengu** » 16 Mar 2009, 21:38

I'm also a fan of the quicker, easier, and less expensive fixes. I'll check the gap but I haven't had any problems with the A/C flickering on and off that I can think of.

Craigd2599 · Post by **Craigd2599** » 17 Mar 2009, 05:25

It doesn't cost anything to take the pulley off and check the shaft endplay. You could even try turning the compressor with a drill motor...it'd take a 1/2" drill or bigger to turn it but you could see if you get noise without the pulley and clutch pack

Tengu · Post by **Tengu** » 17 Mar 2009, 20:05

Is there any way to remove the clutch without removing the compressor from the car? And if not, any tips on how to get it out?