I noticed that when I turn on the AC that engine starts to vibrate, and when I rev the engine, in neutral or drive, that I get "chatter" or a "rattle". It sounds like REALLY BAD clutch chatter on a new clutch (in transmission terms).

I have a feeling I know the answer, but I wanted some opinions.

Its the compressor going bad, isn't it.

 

C'mon guys, I need some expertice here. I have another question. If the AC still blows cold, and the compressor only rattles when the AC is on, is it repairable? I have noticed that they sell a few different types of bearings for the compressor. Does this sound like just the bearings are wasted to anyone.

PS, if someone can post up an exploded parts view of the compressor, that would be awesome.

Thanks

 

Get a stethoscope or long screwdriver and listen by both the compressor and tensioner pulley, could be either or (be careful by the moving parts obviously). I had my tensioner go bad and it sounded like a jackhammer with the ac on...if the tensioner is the problem, it's a piece of cake to replace and fairly inexpensive.

 

same noise here...I've got a new tensioner and belt for my a/c in the truck floorboard right now...

 

Thats VERY good to know. I will check that first thing in the morning

 

i've though about going to a goodyear gatorback belt (like you use on a blower) as I get quite the sqeek for about 20 seconds in the AM only when the A/C is on. Does anyone know why GM has the a/c on it's own pulley setup?

 

Because the A/C compressor takes so much power to run. Also, with a single belt, it's hard to get enough "wrap" around the compressor pulley for good contact area.

 

not to hijack but I did notice the power it draws, my f-150 a/c on or off i got the same fuel economy, now it's almost 2 mpg difference. Why is this?

 

By turning on the AC, you draw more on the crank (that phrase was not intentional). It takes power to run the AC. My mileage only changes by 5 to 10 miles per tank. Its not that significant.

 

your compressor has seized and has probably broken your tensioner too. bad news but its common. you'll need a new compressor, accumulator, orifice screen, and possibly a tensioner.