First off, I know basically nothing about cars.

Now, my A/C has been non-functional for some time. The 'vent' works, and I can get Normal/Max A/C to run if the engine is off (though it doesn't feel much different) - however, if the engine is running, the A/C and defrost are no-go. They will run, but there is a high-pitched screeching noise from the engine when they are on. I have been told that it is most likely a ball-bearing in the air-compressor. Dealer says they'll have to replace the unit, at a cost of roughly $900. There is no way I will have that kind of money any time soon. Is there any way that I would be able to get the part and install it myself, or would I be better off getting a mechanic to do it w/ my lack of knowledge/experience?

Thanks!

[94 Aerostar]

 

Hi Rob:

Welcome to our FTE forum.

 

Rob,

It sounds like a jammed AC compressor. Does the engine slow down or attempt to stall when this happens? Right now, just the belt is slipping, but it will get worse.

Unless you actually know how to repair the compressor, the only solution is to replace it. This will require pulling the refrigerant from the AC system first. Then you can liesurely replace the compressor with either a rebuilt or one that you pull from a salvage yard. Then the system has to be evacuated and then refilled with refrigerant.

The first and last parts will have to be done by an AC mechanic. But you can do the hard work of replacing the compressor, and save yourself a bunch of money.

 

Rob, if you have time and insperation, you can replace A/C compressor... here, in Ukraine I can bue refrigerant in small baloons and fill the system by myself, but as practice shows, mechanics check A/C for leakages better, then me, and as result, to fill it in the shop may be cheapper. So to save some mony there is a reason to replace compressor by yourself, but no reason to fill it in garage....

and I dont advice to you to rebuild jammed compressor.... leakeages are possible, and no reason to use compressor from junkyard, exept of compressor fromm new wrecked car. Ones I found nearly new a/c compressor made by Valeo for $50.... I've installed into my friend's car... really interesting compressor: small crankshaft and 8 pist. inside...

 

Hi Rob,
leak detection is easy and low cost

DIY A/C info Click
have to do a complete flush, replace accumulator/dryer and orfice tubes

find a compressor from a wrecked rig
dealer installed and factory installed a/c use different compressors

Ready-Aire Compressor:
Part Number: 2039
This product fits the following vehicles - click on a vehicle to see detailed engine information.
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1999 - 2002 F-350 SUPER DUTY PICKUP
1991 - 1996 BRONCO

1990 - 1997 F-450 SUPER DUTY PICKUP
1996 - 2000 E SUPER DUTY

1999 - 2002 F-450 SUPER DUTY PICKUP
1994 - 1996 E-150 ECONOLINE

1999 - 2002 F-550 SUPER DUTY PICKUP
1994 - 1996 E-250 ECONOLINE

1994 - 1997 F53 STRIPPED CHASSIS
1992 - 2001 E-350 ECONOLINE

1992 - 1996 F59 STRIPPED CHASSIS
2000 - 2003 EXCURSION

1994 - 2005 MUSTANG
1991 - 2003 EXPLORER

1991 - 2005 RANGER
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1993 - 1995 TAURUS
1991 - 1996 F-150 PICKUP

1992 - 1994 TEMPO
1990 - 1997 F-250 PICKUP

1991 - 1997 THUNDERBIRD
1999 - 2002 F-250 SUPER DUTY PICKUP

1995 - 2003 WINDSTAR
1990 - 1997 F-350 PICKUP
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1994 - 1996 B3000
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1998 - 2005 B3000
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1994 - 2005 B4000
1998 - 2001 B2500

1991 - 1994 NAVAJO
1991 - 1993 B2600
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1992 - 1994 TOPAZ
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1993 - 2002 VILLAGER
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