I’ve got a nasty noise that I have tracked down to the a/c pulley area.
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It seems the stationary bit on front of the pulley assembly is kind of flapping about and striking against the rotating pulley, making a tinny clanging noise. There is also some gungy black stuff coming out of the from of the assembly, between the stationary bit and the rotating bit in the middle.
I don’t know much about the operation of this area and my workshop manual is sparse on air con – basically saying “You need to take it to a professional”.
What’s the likely problem? Is there anything I can do, other than pay a professional?
It looks very much like the compressor pump clutch is disintegrating. The clutch is made up of two rings held apart by a rubber material, this material disintegrates over time. Loosen the belts and remove the centre nut and with a bit of help from two screwdrivers it will slide off the shaft but be carefully not to loose two or three distance spaces that are behind the clutch as it comes off. You will need to try and source a S/H one from somewhere but check the name of the make of the compressor as I believe two different makes of compressor were used by Mazda.
Two pictures that may help you from one of my previous posts.
My machine is currently undergoing minor surgery for other problems (I have two other “help!” threads ongoing) as a result of which I have good access to the clutch, so will investigate per your instructions.
I’ve not found anyone able/willing to supply me with clutch parts for replacement, but I have sourced a compete compressor.
It’s been suggested that the clutch disintegrating is symptomatic of the pump starting to seize up, and that to just replace the clutch is a false economy so I should replace the whole unit.
However, I’m not sure that’s a do-it-yourself job, is it? (replacing the entire pump unit must mean letting out the gas, surely?)
If there is gas in the system you are correct on your assumption but, why not buy the whole compressor but make sure that you have a comback if you find it’s clutch has deteriorated. You can then take the clutch off the compressor and fit it to the one on your car. If by a remote chance the compressor on your car is no good you can then fit it later. It is a relatively easy job to change once you get the old clutch off. You will have no gas leaking problems just by replacing the clutch. I certainly didn’t.
If Dave Illing doesn’t want it halli, I’ll take it off your hands for a tenner. I could collect it from you at the Spring Rally or at the Holy Island day out.
I think I’ve found one locally, but I won’t know until Tuesday. If I don’t need yours, I’ll let you know then. (Sounds like you have another taker anyway.
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