196k mi on 2000 XLT Explorer V8

Ac Clutch just started making a rattling noise when disengaged sometimes.
Which would be the best option if expecting to trade it before 250k mi,yet trying to keep cost down? I'm not sure if it's the clutch or the bearing making the noise as bearing feels ok when rotated.

1.Replace Clutch and Compressor
2.Replace Clutch and bearing
3.Replace bearing

Is there a rule of thumb for compressor life? For a clutch?
Note, this is in hot Texas where ac is needed 8 months.

What's been your experience?

 

Does the AC still work well otherwise?
If so, I would just replace the clutch assembly. It's ~$120. Don't wait until the bearing fails completely!!

200K is a lot of miles and the front compressor seal (or any other seal in the system) could let go at any time, However, disturbing the currently intact system may very well open up a whole 'nother batch of repairs.
I can only offer anecdotal proof of this but in my experience, if it ain't broke, don't fix it...until it really needs to be "fixed".

The clutch assembly can be replaced without opening up the refrigerant loop. One bolt, one snap ring, 2 big screw drivers and a rubber mallet.
If you open the system to replace the compressor, you would need to also replace the accumulator and orifice. At 12 years old, the rest of the seals in the system are suspect. The system oil is also well used and should be flushed out and replaced. The hoses can develop leaks at their crimp connections from being disturbed after 12 years...

If you replace the clutch assembly this summer and it springs a leak by next summer, it's still a cheap repair. If it doesn't spring a leak next summer and keeps working after that, you're money ahead.

 

If it's rattling just when disengaged, then it's likely just the hub. Remove it and the serpentine belt to check the pulley bearings.