AC pump clutch repair 2004 1.9tdi

[benali]

Just been in for a A/C regas, they tell me that the compressor clutch is not working. Needs a new compressor they tell me, ouch!. Does anyone know if these things are repairable or should I consider a recon unit?

[johnnyroper]

I think you would be better off getting a replacement unit either a known good used one or a recon unit.

[steveo59]

Hi Benali,
when my a/c compressor clutch disintegrated, I searched for a new clutch and couldn't find one on its own. I ended up buying a second hand compressor including clutch and so as not to need regassing I just swopped the clutch onto the old compressor.To do this I had to unbolt the compressor , turn it so the clutch faced the ground, and working underneath the car managed to replace the compressor clutch without disconnecting the a/c pipes and releasing the gas.

[benali]

Ah right, that sounds like the way forward. Roughly how long did it take you and how difficult was it to do?
Cheers.

[Chrispb]

Make sure your compressor is not seized or partly seized as this may be whats caused your problem in the first place.

[steveo59]

Hi Benali,
It must be about 4years ago since I did mine, so I cant remember how long it took to do, but maybe a couple of hours. It's not difficult just fiddly turning the compressor thro 90 degrees so it faces down just because other things are in the way but it can be done. On my clutch the rivets holding the fingers on the front of the clutch had
broken so it was a mechanical fault. If yours looks ok, check its not electrical, that you do get 12v when you switch on your a/c.