Last couple of days I thought I heard a noise getting a little louder. At first I thought a noisy water pump or alternator but then I figured out it was coming from the compressor. If I switch the air off and on the noise changes, it is a rattle.

Does this mean a complete compressor changeout or could it be just the clutch itself. I have not done a lot of air con. work so I do not know if changing just the clutch itself is even possible and would that mean an air con. recharge?

 

Complete compressor replacement, most likely.

Individual parts to repair compressors are almost certainly out there somewhere....but it might take some digging to find 'em. After that comes the actual replacement...which sometimes requires special tools. But, if you're determined, I reckon it's doable.

Decades ago repairing compressors was fairly common. Nowadays, not so much. Too much time and effort required.

Cheers
DD

 

Most small independent shops (like a oil change place) offer a "check up" for the AC system and should be able to tell you what's up inexpensively.

Could be anything from a belt to a complete compressor outage.

Clutches can be replaced separately, but the work involved is high enough and the expense of a rebuilt compressor is low enough that it would be advisable to do the entire unit - if needed.

Just my 2 cents.

 

Also....

Some models ...not sure about yours....have an idler pulley for the compressor belt. The idler pulley bearing can make quite a racket...and will come/go in accordance with the compressor being engaged/disengaged.

Cheers
DD

 

The AC compressor is quite easy to dismantle and build. Basic tools and some decent circlip pliers are all that is required.

I (partially) rebuilt mine with all new seals about 12 months ago as it was leaking. I got a seal kit from US ebay for $12. That compared vary favourably with a new unit in the UK which is around £300.

I don't know what other parts are commonly available but worth a look. The compressor is a DENSO 10PA17C (at least mine is, check yours). Worth searching based on that reference rather than Jaguar X300 as the same compressor is fitted to many makes and models.

 

After watching some U Tube videos I have a better idea of what may be going on. When the ac. is off the only thing that is rotating is the disengaged clutch on a center bearing. These bearings do go bad and replacing them is not that big a deal. The compressor does not have to be disassembled and the hoses do not have to be disconnected which is a good thing.

Doug, thanks for the info on the idler pulley, I replaced it last year along with the belts but I will check it out for noise and wear.

 

https://www.shopcenturyautoair.com/s..._Products.html

The bearing is in their catalog as BG403 as well as a replacement video or on Ebay and Amazon

If you want to renuild the compressor for whatever reason they have the seal kits and videos on there site

Yes on the Denso 10PA17C

https://www.ebay.com/itm/AC-Compress...lZoEQA&vxp=mtr