AC comp or clutch?

[Dogsofjune]

Due to the rising temps lately, I've been using the AC more and more in the past month.

Sunday was when I noticed my problem. After engaging the AC every couple of seconds I'll hear a quick and small squeek, the RPM's dip, you can feel it pull on the engine. Then it runs fine, squeek......on and on till I turn off the AC. No problem with the AC off.

My assumption is the clutch is locking up briefly and holding the belt. The fella at the dealership said that the compressor can lock up as well. I wasn't aware of that was a possibility, but then I've never worked on an AC compressor before.

Anything else to look at? I wouldn't think the compressor would be bad already, even on an '03, but then nobody makes things like they used too.

[Sparky2263]

Generally, a squeak when the compressor engages is related to a loose or worn belt. Belt or tensioner would be the issue there.

I'm wondering if you aren't a bit low on refrigerant and it's cycling more than it should be. Quick, easy and accurate ck. for a low charge is as follows; Fan on high, normal A/C vent selection (not recirc or Max), all the windows down and hold rpm's at 2000. The accumulator should quickly get cold and start sweating. If more than 1/2 lb low it will not sweat and won't be very cold.

[T Man]

you mean you have that supercharged and nitrous, and you arent using the 65mph ac?

[Dogsofjune]

The system checks out fine. No leaks and it's not low on refrigerant. I think you are right on tho about the belts Sparky.
I still can't account eactly for the quick squeek and a drop in rpm's but I do believe belts are an issue.

I am pretty sure a smaller belt for the P-dyne is needed. When it was originally installed apparently to long of a belt was used. It's maxed out and can't be tightened down anymore.

I'm headin to the auto parts shop and find the right length in a Gatorback.


"you mean you have that supercharged and nitrous, and you arent using the 65mph ac?"

Well if I could sell some swirls, maybe I could afford a 65mph AC!!:p

[mrmidnight]

Tman, down here, with gas prices, at a redlight I use the 0mph AC

[s10 rebel]

if everthing looks ok maybe it can be a bad pressure cycling switch.

[Dogsofjune]

I honestly believe the squeek I'm hearing is the comressor cycling and the belt is loose enough it chirps till it gets traction.

Being a holiday weekend is making it tough to find new belts. <sigh>