Questions and Answers

Taurus A/C Compressor

Q. I have a 1993 Taurus with a V6, approx 60,000 miles. The AC compressor went out close to a year ago. Given the estimates, I decided I could go without AC for a while. Now, the car has started making a sound which is difficult to describe. I took it in to be serviced, and was shown that the clutch on the compressor was vibrating. They told me the only way to fix this was to replace the compressor, which is 1600 that I really don't want to invest in the car. They told me that if it's not fixed soon however, the clutch & pulley could vibrate loose, and then I would lose the belt. Is there any other way about this? Would taking out the compressor, and getting a smaller belt work? And in buying a belt, would I ask for one of for an 1989 or 1993 Taurus?

Thanks,
David

A. I remember a time when someone had a problem like this we would just take the A/C belt off. Now with serpentine belts, you can't do that.

I would call a parts store and get a belt for a 1993 Taurus without A/C and see if it will work. You may or may not have to remove the compressor, but it should work.