+1 on having the system evacuated correctly and then recharged by weight once the compressor is replaced.

Measure the amount of oil in the new compressor by draining it and refilling it with the correct amount when you install the new compressor. Sometimes the new compressor is shipped with either too much or too little oil.

The R134a refrigerant level is listed on a sticker in the engine compartment or on the fan shroud and in the X308 Workshop Manual. Here is a link to the Workshop Manual:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/9aid15mx5t..._1998.pdf?dl=0

 

The only things that are missing is the centre bolt (should be M8) holding the plate that has come loose and a couple of washers (spacers) which set the clutch clearance. The washers may still be there, inside the coil somewhere or inside the splined extension of the clutch plate, held by the magnet residue; have a look. Same thing happened to my Volvo and the washers were still there. I just got a bolt of suitable length and re-attached the clutch plate back.

 

Yes and perhaps. One of the most outstanding things in a forum like this is the perspective
of individual members. While some are willing to try methods that may stretch dependability,
doing so at the lowest price point, others just want it fixed in the best possible way so as to
assure no further issues from that part. Then there are those who lean both ways depending
on what part is being considered. We have such a wealth of perspective that the forum mem-
ber has a wide view and a plethora of choice.

 

Believe me, that was the first thought that came to me. I would rather not break into a capable ac system if I don't have to although I have repaired a number of ac systems over the years and am not afraid of the job. I have a new Denso coming from RockAuto for $238 (including tax and shipping). Not too bad.

So, I'll get an M8 bolt and spacer, mate it back up and see where that takes me. I'm curious at this point.

 

Great! It is good to have you here and let us know how it goes.

 

I decided to replace the bolt (M6 1.0 x 20mm) and spacer. I did not detect any bearing wobble and am at a loss why this thing unscrewed itself. I don't have high hopes it will last very long but the ac is currently working.

This car has a little over 138,000 miles on it and as far as I know, I'm the third owner, the second being my son who was very hard on it. I call it the car I love to hate. Nothing so far has been to hard to fix and everything works, In the last year though, I've done a 4 wheel rotor/brake change, water pump/thermostat replacement, LH radiator fan, windshield washer pump, forward/driver side O2 sensor (the hard one to get to), rear shocks and those nasty donuts that disintegrate. At least those are the ones I remember.

 

Oh and how could I forget that pesky alternator!

 

Finally just put in a new compressor with a new clutch. All is well again.