The A/C clutch locked up and the shaft (pictures) broke. The pulley spins freely and I was able to simply slide off the broken clutch and piece of shaft. Can I continue driving the car with this piece removed? Is the pulley securely on? I drive daily but will replace the entire compressor in spring. Can I wait? It's always something!

 

If you don't have an air pump, just cut the belt and all is fine. It is a rare thng for the shaft to snap. The co pressor is definately dead and scrap metal now. You won't be able to salvage any A6 parts.

Or just get a new compressor. Any single groove metric Harrisn A6 will fit. They don't cost much at all.

 

I do have a functioning air pump, so I am reluctant to snip the belt. I realize that the compressor is cheaper than my mechanics labor cost, and will swap it out in spring. I simply want to know if the pulley is secure as its spinning freely? As I said earlier the clutch assembly bolt sheared off. What holds the pulley in place?

 

From memory...

The pulley is a press-fit and has a snap-ring retainer as well.

Typically you need a puller to remove it after removing the snap-ring. I don't think you have to worry

When time comes to replace the compressor you need to determine if you have a "Superheat switch" type or the "HSLP" type. "High Side, Low Pressure"

Cheers
DD

 

As Doug said. The pulley is pressed onto a bearing which in turn is pressed onto the front cylinder head. It won't just fall off.