AC noise...wondering if it's the clutch or the whole compressor?

sunliner

Original poster
Member
Mar 25, 2012
365
2006 Trailblazer....
When I turn on the air conditioner, there's an erratic rattling/popping noise from under the hood. Comes and goes anytime the AC is on....more comes than goes lately. The AC still blows nice and cold but something definitely aint right. I'm wondering if it's the AC clutch or if the compressor itself is about to go. Is there a way to diagnose a clutch/bearing problem?

_mike
 

meerschm

Member
Aug 26, 2012
1,079
you can relieve tension on the belt, and see if the pulley moves any direction except round and round,

you also can look at what is going on. and see if you can see exactly what is popping (be very careful around the belt and moving parts) you should be able to see the clutch engage and stop as the need for AC goes in and out.

since the AC works, the noise could be from another pulley , one of the idlers, power steering, water pump. (load from the AC could be a trigger for other noise)

you can check the idlers same way, relieve the tension on the belt, and see if the idlers are smooth.



staring at the motor with the hood up, is a sacred American tradition. Highly recommended.:smile:
 

brianmullaley

Member
May 4, 2013
1
2003 Trailblazer 6 cylinder. Removed center nut from block on compressor and the lines will not come off. Please help. Thanks
 

jimmyjam

Member
Nov 18, 2011
1,634
probably corrosion. should just pull of
 

c good

Member
Dec 8, 2011
672
brianmullaley said:
2003 Trailblazer 6 cylinder. Removed center nut from block on compressor and the lines will not come off. Please help. Thanks

Are you removing pulley in the front or suction and discharge lines?
 

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