Clutch-A/C Compressor: Removal

NOTE: The compressor clutch assembly can be serviced with the refrigerant system fully-charged and the A/C compressor installed on the engine.

NOTE: Typical A/C compressor shown in illustrations.

Fig 1: A/C Compressor Shaft Bolt

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

Disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable.
Raise and support the vehicle.
Remove the belly pan, (Refer to BODY/EXTERIOR/BELLY PAN - REMOVAL) .
Remove the accessory drive belt (Refer to COOLING/ACCESSORY DRIVE/DRIVE BELTS - REMOVAL) .
Disconnect the engine wire harness from the compressor clutch field coil connector (1) located on the top of the A/C compressor (5).
Carefully remove the compressor clutch field coil connector and wire lead from the connector bracket (2).
Remove the compressor shaft bolt (3). A band-type oil filter wrench or a strap wrench may be used to hold the clutch plate (4) from rotating during bolt removal.

Fig 2: Clutch Plate and Shim(s)
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

CAUTION: Do not pry between the clutch plate and the pulley and bearing assembly to remove the clutch plate from the compressor shaft as this may damage the clutch plate.

NOTE: Use care not to lose any clutch shim(s) during removal of the clutch plate, as they may be reused during the clutch plate installation process.
Tap the clutch plate (2) lightly with a plastic mallet to release it from the splines on the compressor shaft (1) and remove the clutch plate and shim(s) (3).

Fig 3: External Snap Ring
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Using snap ring pliers (2), remove the snap ring (1) that secures the pulley and bearing assembly (3) to the front of the A/C compressor and remove the pulley and bearing assembly.

Fig 4: Locating Clutch Field Coil Snap Ring
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Using snap ring pliers (1), remove the snap ring (4) that secures the compressor clutch field coil (2) to the front of the A/C compressor (3) and remove the field coil.