GS - 2nd Gen (1998-2005) Discussion about the second generation GS300, GS400 and GS430 (1998 - 2005)

Strange noise when A/C is on

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Old 10-01-12, 12:13 PM
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Blanco
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Default Strange noise when A/C is on

Guys help me out on this. So when my a/c is on I hear what sounds like a nasty whining bearing noise. I turn the a/c off, and the noise goes away, until I turn the a/c back on.

I'm thinking it's the clutch pulley bearing. So I pop the hood with the motor running, and have a/c turned on. I'm hearing the noise, but it doesn't sound like it's coming from the a/c clutch pulley. Sounds more like it's coming from the other side of the motor, closer to the tensioner pulley.

I'm planning on picking up a automotive stethoscope on way home from work today to see if I can further isolate the noise.

If it is indeed the clutch pulley bearing where can I get the part? Sewell shows a bearing in the diagram, but doesn't list it as an individual part, and I'm not about to replace the whole compressor.

Where can I get the bearing by itself?

I'll update tonight after some more troubleshooting. This just started today while out for lunch.

Anyone have experience replacing the bearing, regardless of which pulley is bad? Is this a diy job?
Old 10-03-12, 07:25 AM
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Blanco
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Anyone??? Bueller??
Old 10-03-12, 08:07 AM
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kdick91
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Usually when you have a compressor component fail, you either have to take it to be rebuilt or replace the whole unit. At least, that has been my experience. That's the only thing I usually let shops manage is HVAC stuff. Sometimes though, the compressor is just noisy. What you can try is taking some oil and use a straw to suck drip it between the pulley and compressor. I have done this several times to silence idler pulleys while I waiting to replace it.
Old 10-03-12, 08:18 AM
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Blanco
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But can't just the bearing be replaced? My compressor still works fine, just squealing.
Old 10-03-12, 08:22 AM
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wbmx1981
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Hello,

I had some A/C issues in the past. My A/C wouldnt work, I saw sparks coming from the whole pulley when the AC Clutch was engaged, so I thought it was the bearings. AUTOZONE was the only place that would sell just the bearings BUT you need the part number (Part Number: MT2027). If you dont have the part number you will be told to buy the whole compressor. My compressor ended up being the problem. Long story short, I bought a compressor from a junk yard and took the A/C to Austin Rebuilders and they put in the new bearings on my "new to me" A/C compressor for $15. A/C is quiet and is blowing cold air. One problem you'll face is, you need enough pressure to push the old bearing out and the new bearings in without damanging the bearing face. I tried everything and couldnt do without a bearing press. If you are in Austin try Austin Rebuilders on South 1st. Good luck hope this helps.

Last edited by wbmx1981; 10-03-12 at 09:48 AM.
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