A/C Compressor Clutch: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Intrepid, 2003 Chrysler Intrepid, 2003 Chrysler Concorde, and 2003 Chrysler 300M. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The refrigerant system can remain fully-charged during compressor clutch, pulley, or coil replacement. The compressor clutch can be serviced in the vehicle.

Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Remove the serpentine drive belt (Refer to ACCESSORY DRIVE ).
Unplug the compressor clutch coil wire harness connector.
Remove the bolts that secure the compressor to the mounting bracket.
Remove the compressor from the mounting bracket. Support the compressor in the engine compartment while servicing the clutch.
Remove the compressor shaft bolt Fig 1 . A band type oil filter removal tool can be placed around the clutch plate to aid in bolt removal.

Fig 1: Identifying Compressor Shaft Bolt And Clutch Plate
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Tap the clutch plate with a plastic hammer and remove clutch plate and shim(s) Fig 2 .
CAUTION: Do not use screwdrivers between the clutch plate assembly and pulley to remove front plate as this may damage the front plate assembly.

Fig 2: Identifying Clutch Plate And Shim(s)
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Remove pulley retaining snap ring with Snap Ring Pliers (C-4574), and slide pulley assembly off of compressor Fig 3 .

Fig 3: Removing Pulley Snap Ring
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Remove coil wire bracket/ground clip screw and wire harness.
Remove snap ring retaining field coil onto compressor housing Fig 4 . Slide field coil off of compressor housing.

Fig 4: Removing Clutch Coil Snap Ring
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.