A/C Compressor and Clutch Assembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Mariner and 2006 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Internal A/C compressor components are not repaired separately. Install a new A/C compressor only as an assembly. The A/C clutch disc and hub assembly, A/C clutch pulley and A/C clutch field coil are repairable.
Installation of a new suction accumulator is not required when repairing the air conditioning system except when there is physical evidence of system contamination from a failed A/C compressor or damage to the suction accumulator.

The SC90V variable scroll A/C compressor has the following characteristics:

Variable capacity function controlled by a suction pressure sensing device
Fixed and orbiting scroll to provide refrigerant compression
Non-repairable shaft seal
A/C compressor uses PAG compressor oil (oil contains special additives necessary for the A/C compressor)
A/C compressor contains a thermal cut-out switch which senses the A/C compressor housing temperature (switch disengages the A/C compressor clutch if the housing temperature exceeds 120°C (247°F))

The magnetic A/C clutch has the following characteristics:

Drives the compressor shaft
When battery positive voltage (B+) is applied to the A/C clutch field coil, the clutch disc and hub assembly is drawn toward the A/C clutch pulley
Magnetic force locks the clutch disc and hub assembly and the A/C clutch pulley together as one unit, causing the compressor shaft to rotate
When B+ is removed from the A/C clutch field coil, springs in the clutch disc and hub assembly move the clutch disc away from the A/C clutch pulley