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AC Compressor Clutch Replacement

29K views 6 replies 4 participants last post by  andrew625 
#1 ·
Hey all MZ3 lovers! One quick question.

I have a 06 2.3L Hatch at 162K, runs smooth as it can ever be. But the ONLY problem with her is no A/C :crying:

My A/C compressor belt had been pulled almost a year ago and the clutch has completely seized. How do I know if I can just replace the clutch instead of the entire unit? As we all know, replacing the a/c compressor = death. Empty refrigerant, replacing drier, expansion valve, vacuuming, cleaning the system, recharge, etc...

Really hoping I can just replace the clutch instead of the whole thing
Thanks in advance! :nerd:
 
#3 ·
Just get a rebuilt unit and safe yourself the hassle. I've gone through this in my lifetime and it's not worth just changing out the clutch as other parts can go bad. My brother got a rebuilt AC compressor for his 2006 Mazda 3 sedan for around 200 bucks installed. They replaced a few other things that dealt with the AC system as well. Its been 3 years and he said it still works like a champ. A new one from my local dealer is $800, not including labor to install it. Amazon has an OEM one for around $585 with free shipping.

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
 
#4 ·
Here's what a typical ac compressor looks like:



Try to turn the pulley assembly by hand. If it's good, then it should be perfectly smooth and very very easy to turn. If not, then the pulley bear is shot.

Now try to turn the clutch plate by hand, that will turn the ac compressor. You should also be able to turn it by hand. You may feel more resistance on some parts of the rotation, but you should not feel any grinding or grittiness.

I changed out my ac clutch not too long ago and it wasn't so bad. Putting on the ac belt was the hardest part. Though I would strongly suggest you getting a GOOD snap ring plier. I got this one at first and it was nearly impossible to grip the snap ring. The tool eventually broke before I was able to get the snap rings out. I had to zip everything back up and give it a go another day. I was so incredibly annoyed. I ended up getting this one and it took all of 60 seconds to get the rings out.

I got this clutch kit and it worked perfectly. The connector was different, but I just cut the old wire and crimped the new clutch and the old connector together. I did have to use the shims from the old clutch instead of the new one. The new ones did not give me the proper clearance.
 
#5 ·
Ahhhh I see. Then I'm left with no other choice but replacing the compressor then. I've tried to spin it before, the whole compressor had turn into a fossil and the clutch will not budge 😂

I've had some amateur work experiences with cars like replacement of rear struts, radiator+fan, and spark plugs) but this will def be the biggest job yet (but who's got $1200 to burn? I'd rather burn in the LA heat than that).

Thank you madmatt2024, DarthR8er* for your inputs! And Jchu14 thank you for your detailed info! I REALLY wish that's all I need to replace :'(

I've got these video guides, if there's any other vids/articles please DO share! THANK YOU!

2004-2009 Mazda 3 AC Compressor Replacement
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORo29sikloI
(Best vid summary)

How to Pull a Vacuum on an AC System - Step by Step
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUdCa3feGvg

Phil's AC Hell
http://www.mazda3forums.com/95-main...gnosis-condensor-evaporator-install-tips.html
 
#7 ·
To wrap up this case, I wound up found a local shop with excellent review. Replaced a remanufactured compressor and new condenser for $700 flat. I took the offer. Happy cooled MZ3 driver since then LOL thank you ALL for your input!
 
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