gvsu141

Hello, I have a 2012 EcoBoost. I recently had the AC clutch go bad. Clutch started smoking after turning on the AC for the first time this year. In have a couple of questions.

First, is it possible to replace just the clutch with the compressor still in the vehicle?

Second, how likely is it that it's just the clutch that is bad?

I have to drive to Tennessee and back this weekend with a one year old, so don't have much time, and will need AC with these temperatures for the kiddo. If not fixed by Saturday, I'll need to rent a car. Thanks for the help.

98ranger

Does the center hub of the compressor turn smoothly by hand? If there is significant resistance or turns roughly, the compressor itself may be failing. I’ve had clutches start smoking just before the entire compressor locked up.

gvsu141

Thanks! I had someone else just mention the same. This one does NOT turn freely. Looks like i'm best just changing the compressor out. Looks like it's fun to access on these trucks

98ranger

I just checked out two compressors In my workshop. One good used one out of a vehicle and another in vehicle charged with refrigerant. They turn about the same with just a bit more force than using only fingertips. Just wanted to make sure as some styles have slightly more resistance. If you change the compressor, please please please change the condenser with the built-in drier too. A dragging compressor that is going out is pumping fine metal shavings into the condenser/drier and is acting like a filter that cannot be effectively cleaned. I recently replaced one and it was only $60 for a TYC brand from rockauto.com. They also sell OEM and compressors too.