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Hi folks, in last year, my A/C system is starting to degrade now after 225K miles. It is having a hard time keeping up with the heat in direct sun.
The compressor is clicking more loudly this year than last year, so time to do a refresh.
Just ordered a vacuum pump/gauge kit so I will have the right tools to do the right job.
In regards to compressor, what is the best way to proceed? Motorcraft only? With clutch/NEW or Reman? What about non Motorcraft?
Looking around, can only find a NEW Motorcraft with clutch from Rock Auto for a decent price, but they have a long list of parts that has to be replaced to maintain the warranty. Including all the hoses and evaporator, and install a pancake filter? Seems a bit extreme, but maybe is necessary?
I know I have to replace the orifice filter and drier. What else?
Should I flush the system? Any idea how to do that?
Other advise is very welcome. I want to do this right!
I went with an O'Reilly compressor, replaced the orifice tube (pretty mucked when I pulled it), and accumulator/drier. I didn't flush the system, but AC now performed flawlessly!
It actually gets down to 11 degrees and will freeze you out front and rear.
If it's clicking loudly, you may just need a new clutch. Mine actually imploded and locked up and the truck wouldn't turn over. I don't know what the life span of the actual compressor is, but I'm running over 280K and haven't had an issue. The clutch is fairly easy to replace (at least on the 6.0). I'd imagine that the V10 would be just as easy, but I could be way off base. Clutch was relatively cheap as well compared to a whole new compressor.
Dang, that is pretty cold man! 11 degrees? Wow, I only wish I could achieve that!
So an O'Reilly compressor so far is working fine for you. I will check them out also.
So interesting the clicking could be the clutch? When it is engaged, would think it is quiet. The ticking noise is constant when clutch engaged or not. So could it still be the clutch then? If so, I am willing to give it a try and put a new one on. Not sure how they come off? Special tool?
I'd say that if it's clicking whether or not the AC is on, the bearings are likely going in it. Mine had ball bearings in it that essentially came out of the carrier but remained in the pulley and then got all crammed together and locked it up so bad it kept the engine from turning over. I did use a gear puller, but other than that no special tools. I' would think that if you were to take the belt off, you could spin the pulley by hand to feel if it's binding and go from there. Mine is a two piece (essentially), such that when the AC is off, the belt running surface spins freely. When the clutch engages (AC on), the clutch collapses on the outer ring (belt running surface) and spins the compressor itself. You may not be able to spin the compressor, but if the out ring (belt running surface) is binding, that's where I'd start. Mine was pretty rusty and nasty, as you can see in the pictures.
Just realized I didn’t mention, make sure you’re charge is good and you don’t have electrical issues causing your compressor to click on and off. Sorry about that
