2005 V50 AC not working, asphalty substance in splash guard

[shani10k]

Here we go...first post. Picked up a low mileage 2005 V50 last year, and so far the car has been fantastic...However, my V50's AC crapped out the other day. The AC clutch is not engaging.

For a couple months prior to this, there was a whining noise coming from either the harmonic balancer or the compressor pulley. I replaced the AC and alternator belts, and the AC belt tensioner pulley...still the noise.

Today, I took off the wheel and snapped the following pics.

First off, there is an asphalt-like solid black substance that seems to have come from the AC compressor pulley. It's really solid, but somewhat malleable--like asphalt.
IMG_3096 by mhokung, on Flickr
IMG_3093 by mhokung, on Flickr

Second, there seems to be some oily spray from behind the harmonic balancer. I am aware that these cars can have issues with the PCV valve which cause pressure in the crankcase that could blow out this oil.



Lastly, the noise has really picked up since the AC crapped out. It seems to be coming from the Compressor pulley.


Could the black stuff be solidified grease from the Clutch bearing? If it's not that, what on earth is it?! I'm afraid if I replace the clutch alone, I may be missing a potentially bigger problem.

Also, should I be concerned about the oil blowout from behind the harmonic balancer?

Is there any way this is all connected?


Thanks

[shani10k]

So I would never have delved this deep had I not just changed the AC belt and tensioner ~1000 miles ago... Turns out, it was a blown fuse!

Still, no explanation for the asphalty-like stuff... The new belt I put on looks fine, but is it possible it's just some 'break in' wear of belt?

Anyway, not going any deeper for now. Will post a follow up if anything happens...which almost seems like a certainty given the solid and liquid black stuff being kicked out in this part of the car...

[shani10k]

years later, I will close this out: I had a broken bearing in the AC compressor, so the belt rubbed right through and burnt through. I could feel resistance in the compressor belt pulley.