AC compressor locked up last week while the heater was in window defrost mode. Didn't realize it but the AC goes on in defrost mode, evidently to cool and dry the air before it's heated and reaches the windshield.

When the compressor seized the AC clutch made a howling noise and went up in smoke. It was night time and luckily I was only a mile from home. Took until the next morning to figure out what the problem was. The noise sounded like something the E4OD would make when dying and I was relieved to find out it was coming from the AC clutch.

Never messed with AC before but I have a vacuum pump and decided to do it myself. Haven't totaled it all up yet but I think the parts alone, including the recommended new hoses, flushing chemical, refrigerant and other stuff is getting close to $500! I did buy good quality OEM parts. I also bought a made in USA gauge manifold which I consider a good long term investment but that will put the overall cost way over $500.

I considered just installing a compressor bypass idler pulley and not repairing the AC, but wife says NO WAY!

Bob

 

There will be LOTS of shrapnel throughout the entire system.

Miss one small piece and it will be game over.

 

Yeah, that's what I've read. I'm installing an inline filter so that will probably help some.