AC Compressor Whine

[Ape Runner]

My AC works great, but it whines loud. I know the sound is coming from the pulley because if I remove the belt it goes away, and when the belt is on, it whines whether the AC is on or off.

Here's my question: I've found AC Compressor Clutch kits that replace the rotating assembly, but they're almost $200 which is hard to justify when the AC works just fine. Is there another fix to try and get the whine to go away? Also, is this a job to be left to an expert? or can a basic garage mechanic make the repair?

 

[rdgt4r]

Are you sure its not the A/C idler pulley they are notorious for that very noise in fact I have it right now. I doubt it has anything to do with the clutch.

 

[Ape Runner]

Maybe it is the Idler pulley. To be honest I have not pinpointed the sound, I just know it is coming from the rotating part of the compressor unit since it is constant whether AC is on or off with the belt connected and disappears when the belt is removed.

What is the solution to the idler pulley issue?

 

[Ape Runner]

Oh, nm. Now I see what you're saying (Had to look up "Idler Pulley." That was my first thought when the noise started. I tried greasing up that pulley, but the noise remained. I wonder if there's a way to eliminate the idler pulley from the "assembly line" and keep the AC pulley spinning? How else could I isolate the idler pulley?

 

[rdgt4r]

Well because its a cheaper fix I would try to fix the idler pulley first. I think toyota wants an ungodly amount for an OEM idler but here is what im gonna order

Store Locator | NAPA Online

 

[rdgt4r]

Oh, nm. Now I see what you're saying (Had to look up "Idler Pulley." That was my first thought when the noise started. I tried greasing up that pulley, but the noise remained. I wonder if there's a way to eliminate the idler pulley from the "assembly line" and keep the AC pulley spinning? How else could I isolate the idler pulley?

Ha yeah you cant isolate it because its the idler pulley/ belt tensioner for the A/C belt line. Ive tried greasing mine too but when the bearings go out on those things they are done.

 

[Ape Runner]

When are you going to order it? I'll do the same and report back if it worked. That would be a big relief...

Thanks!

 

[Ape Runner]

When are you going to order it? I'll do the same and report back if it worked. That would be a big relief...

Thanks!

 

[rdgt4r]

When are you going to order it? I'll do the same and report back if it worked. That would be a big relief...

Thanks!

Well if they have it in stock ill get it either today or tomorrow and it should take 10 minutes to install. Ill let you know.

 

[Ape Runner]

Any update?

 

[Ape Runner]

It was the Idler Pulley. $30 at Kragen and 10 minute swap and she's back to running nearly silent! Thanks so much for the tip!!!!!!!!