AC Compressor noise
 

Hey everyone! I have a 98 2-door 4WD blazer with 65k miles on it. The AC compressor has started making a very loud noise at all times, not just when the AC is on. It pretty much sounds just like this video on youtube. Will I have to replace the whole compressor or possibly just clutch? Thank you!

If it is making noise irrespective of the clutch being engaged, it seems reasonable that it is the clutch that is bad rather than the compressor.

Is there a way to figure out for sure, or do you think its worth an attempt anyway?

You know, it occurred to me that like in the video, with the clutch engaged so that the compressor is turning, that the clutch should not make any noise because there would be no parts of the clutch moving relative to each other.

How sure are you that the noise is coming from the vicinity of the AC compressor?

What you might do is remove the serpentine belt and then rotate each component by hand while listening and feeling for any resistance or wobble. I prime suspect in my mind would be the tensioner.

I hope this helps.

I did the screwdriver to the ear technique and it seemed to me like it was coming from that area, but I will definitely check that out as well. Thanks for the suggestion!