We just returned from an RV Trip out in Big Bend National Park along the Rio Grande River in TX. While 4-wheeling, my A/C stopped working. After about 30 minutes, I got a flat in my rear passenger tire, and the hole was pretty serious. It looks like the front part to the a/c compressor is missing, so I'm guessing that it loosen, and the a/c stopped working. It then fell off (or flew off), and I ran it over to get my flat. I don't have the old piece, so this is just speculation.

Does anyone know where I can see a picture of the front of the a/c compressor clutch? Can I buy just that piece, mount it, cross my fingers, and have cool air again? Or, it is likely that I will need to replace the whole compressor? If I buy just the clutch, it doesn't come with whatever is in front of it. If I bought a used compressor, maybe I could swap out the front piece. How big of a job is it to replace the ac compressor?

I also see in previous posts that the clutch spacing is important. Will I need to make an adjustment?

I have a 2003, SuperDuty 6.0, 4x4, Lariet, Super Crew Cab. By the way, for anyone who has a concern about the repuation about 2003's, I have to say that this animal tows like a dream. I love passing the little red sports cars when I'm towing my 35 ft 5th wheel. Now, if I can just get my ac back; it gets hot in TX.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

This is an easy fix. I have had it happen personally and seen it elsewhere. You can get a clutch kit that would include the clutch hub, bearing, coil and pressure plate. You don't need all that, and might be able to get just the pressure plate but I never looked into it. I usually just do the whole clutch since it is a mating/wear surface anyway. The kits usually have instructions on the proper air gap but .020 or so is usually good. You use little washers on the shaft of the pressure plate to adjust the clearance.

Changing the compressor isn't a big deal other than evacuating and refilling the system. But you shouldn't need to worry about that.