A/C clutch noise on 95 Blazer.
 

Hi there !

I've replaced a lot of stuff of my A/C, condenser, hose, dryer bottle and compressor.

The compressor is new, comes from a Camaro, and the clutch is from rockauto.com .

The A/C blows cold but when I turn it off there is a big noise in the clutch, and the first time I stopped the A/C there was a heat smell and the clutch was almost red ! Now there is just the noise.

Here is a video to understand :

Air gap is too close.


Sounds like you have a noisy PS pump too ;)

What is the air gap ?

I think the other sound we hear is from the alternator.

The air gap is the distance between the clutch plate and the face of the hub. The clutch plate is pressed onto the compressor shaft with the nut on the front of the clutch plate. If the air gap is too close, the plate will drag on the hub when it is disengaged, making the racket you're hearing. You'll need to buy or rent the tool for removing the clutch plate, then reinstall it using a feeler gauge. Can't recall the spec, but if I remember correctly, it's .030"

Ok, that what I tought at the first time. But I see space between the clutch and pulley, nothing touches. It's approx. at .030.

Spec is .020" to .030" (0.50mm - 0.76mm) and must be checked all the way around.

I'm gonna check it again, but I'm sure it's not less than .020"

I've checked it, there is 0,80mm, so 0.031inch ;)

I would suggest removing the clutch and inspecting the surfaces of the hub and clutch. They need to be smooth & flat. If the clutch was red hot, it may have weakened the release springs allowing it to drag on the hub. While the clutch is removed, start the engine and make sure the noise is gone. If it is, that will confirm the clutch is/was dragging on the hub.

Ok thanks for your informations. The problem is that the tool I've bought on ebay is made in China I think, so after two or three uses the thread is blown :icon_confused: