OK, I finally got irritated enough to take my 2000 Lariat in to have the strange noise checked out. It only happens when the heat selector is on defrost or floor/defrost. Which pointed me to the compressor bearing. Anyhow, they confirmed the noise was the compresor. However they stated that it was not a repairable part, the entire compressor would have to be replaced ($600). If I'm not mistaken...these can be rebuilt correct? Also, the refrigerant was low, so they topped it off...and BAM...the noise is gone. I'm pretty disgusted at this particular dealer and now vow to never return to them. Thankfully there are 3 other Ford Dealers in our area.

 

Compressors can be rebuilt but they aren't done on site by any auto repair shop so they are not BS'ing you. Personally, if the compressor is not leaking and it is working, use it until it dies. Mine has made a little noise now for over 30K miles and is still working......

You do not need to have a Ford dealer do the A/C work. Any good shop that deals with A/C can do it and most likely save you a few $$$ to boot. Please note that if you do decide to go with a rebuilt compressor you will need to make sure that it is a quality rebuild and not some cheap, down and dirty job. Use a reputible shop....cheap is not good when it comes to A/C. Aftermarket evaporators and condensors do not last from personal experience so if either of those need to be replaced, use OEM if you want them to last more than 6 months!!!!

 

A dealer bs you? nooooo what has this world come too!!

 

If the compressor seizes during use, will the A/C clutch automatically disengage? I once drove a van in which the compressor seized, the clutch was still engaged, and the result was a broken fan belt. Pedestrian time for me.

 

nope the clutch will still be engaged. also 600.00 is going rate for a compressor.

 

...but is the bearing replaceable? If so, is it able to be done with it still mounted in the truck? If I have to pull the compressor, I may as well replace it, but I really want to avoid this.