I have 148,000 on my 2001 Escape and the A/C Compressor clutch is noisy, rusty and appears to be slipping above 2000 rpm. Can it be replaced with normal tools or should it be taken to A/C repair shop?
Just got back from a 4,000 mile trip and it worked till the last 150 miles.

Thanks for your help

 

Hi there! I think you should go to the A/C repair shop nearest to you. Yes it is just a small problem but if you fix it by yourself, you may encounter bigger problems i the future.

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Stephon G.

 

I just helped my dad replace the whole a/c compressor in my grandma's 01 escape. I don't really know about working on just the clutch assembly, but removing and installing a reman one was super easy. Took us about 20 minutes. You have to remove the lower skirt/mud plate directly below the passenger headlight. The unit is right there: 2 or 3 bolts to remove it and one to remove the lines. just make sure you get new o-rings and maybe even oil them a little when installing. Charging the system should be left to an a/c guy, if you don't have the gauges/equipment. Hope this helps.
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1986 F250 XLT Lariat 4X4, 6.9l IDI diesel, C6, 33's on alum mags, huge "bambi basher"

 

Ended up taking the Escape in and the shop pointed out the drive end of the AC Compressor was leaking. The Clutch was well worn so both the Clutch and Compressor where replaced.
Thanks for your input.