For the last year or so, my 2003 2-door ZR2 4WD has been producing a rattling noise from the a/c compressor clutch only when the ac is on. When the ac is off and the clutch is not engaged, it is perfectly quiet. It's a loud rattling sound, like a rapid ticking, something like someone rapidly tapping away at an old typewriter. In fact it sounds exactly like this: (sound at 1:20 - not my video)


The clutch appears to be engaging properly when the ac is turned on and the system blows perfectly cold air. It's just annoyingly noisy. When off, I can rotate the clutch plate freely and it feels firm and steady, not wobbly. The spacing appears even as well. Hoping to be able to DIY this. Would just replacing the clutch plate fix this sort of thing? I can't figure out WHY it's making so much noise, but the clutch is definitely the source. Would prefer to avoid having to replace the whole compressor just because of this. It appears the OEM compressor was replaced at some point. The current one appears to be an aftermarket GPD compressor.

 

You can buy the clutch separately (Rock Auto, $50-$150) or replace the entire compressor for $150 - 300. How many miles does that compressor have on it and do you have the equipment to vacuum and charge the AC system?

Amazon has options (not endorsing this one and its for my 2002):




George