Has anyone ever tried to change their own A/C compressor? If so, how hard is it to do? My compressor is just about shot as the clutch is making a loud grinding sound when not engaged (esp. when it's cold). I've read several posts online that this job should be left to the pros. Any comments?

Thanks in advance!
Randy

YOU'RE IN LUCK!!! step right up and let me entertain that question of yours!

I recently had replaced my compressor. First stinker's first: have someone evacuate the system for ya. The pressure this thing's under is not a laughing matter at all. Oh, and there is the EPA concerns too.

Remove your serpentine belt by removing your passenger-side mounted coolant bottle and using a breaker bar to rotate the tensioner pulley.

There are 3 nuts that hold the compressor to the accessory bracket. Remove those.

There are 2 mounting bolts that mount the compressor to the block. Remove those.

There is one nut holding the A/C rigid lines to the compressor. Remove it.

There is one wiring harness giving signal to the compressor. Remove it.

Make sure to EMPTY the "new" used compressor of all oil. If new, you shouldnt have any concerns.

Install is reverse of removal.

LET A SHOP VACUUM CHECK, PURGE, AND RECHARGE THE SYSTEM!!! If you done messed something up during the replacement, the system can explode on you. That would be not cool.

About the only things that NEED to be left to the professionals on this is the evac, vacuum check, purge, and recharge. In Las Cruces, NM, it cost me 80 USD for the shop's part in this.

Richard,
thanks for the fast response. I'll call around to a few shops to see what they will charge to VACUUM CHECK, PURGE, AND RECHARGE THE SYSTEM. I can get the complete compressor for $150 but still not sure I want to tackle this job. If I do, your response will most definitely help w/ R/R of the system.

Thanks again,
Randy

Here is the compressor as you will see it from the passenger wheel well. Oh, I also forgot that you will need to remove 10 bolts for your splashguard.

Compressor front:



Compressor harness (front of vehicle):



Back of compressor:

It really is a simple job, after someone else deals with the freon. Not much harder than replacing brakes at all.

I vacuumed and recharged mine myself, less than $40. It would also be a good idea to replace the accumulator and orifice tube right now while the system isn't pressurized. They're a pain to get to though.

Yes, accumulator and orifice tube for sure. If you can wrench at all, the job is easy except for the evac and charging which take special equipment