A/C Compressor Clutch: Removal

The refrigerant system can remain fully charged during compressor clutch, pulley, or coil replacement. Although the compressor assembly must be removed from its mounting, the compressor clutch can be service with the compressor in the vehicle.

1. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
2. Remove the radiator fan assembly (Refer to REMOVAL ).
3. Remove the serpentine drive belt (Refer to REMOVAL ).
4. Disconnect the engine wire harness connector for the compressor clutch coil from the clutch coil wire harness connector on the top of the compressor.
5. Disengage the retainer on the engine wire harness compressor clutch coil lead from the bracket on the top of the compressor.
6. Remove the four bolts that secure the compressor to the mounting bracket and support the compressor.
7. Raise and support the vehicle.
8. Remove the underside compressor splash shield push pins and the splash shield.
9. Remove the four A/C compressor mount bolts and remove the compressor mount from the engine (Refer to REMOVAL ).
10. Allow the front (pulley end) of the compressor to tilt downward far enough to access the clutch for removal, then remove the compressor shaft bolt (Fig 1 ). If necessary, a band-type oil filter wrench or a strap wrench can be placed around the clutch plate to aid in bolt removal.
    Fig 1: Removing Compressor Shaft Bolt And Clutch Plate

    Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
11. Tap the clutch plate lightly with a plastic hammer and remove the clutch plate and shim(s) from the compressor shaft (Fig 2 ). Be certain not to lose the shim or shims. 
    CAUTION: Do not pry between the clutch plate unit and the pulley to remove the clutch plate from the compressor shaft as this may damage the clutch plate.