2010 Explorer: defrost kills engine in idle

[tm7677]

Over the past week, whenever I turn the defrost on there would be a god-aweful squeal/whine from the engine compartment. well, this morning when I started the truck and turned on the defrost there was no sound but it killed the engine and the check engine light came on.

With it off the truck runs fine, but with it on, no dice!
I have 2010 Explorer, stock, 4WD 4.0L 6 cylinder. I have read some posts that refer to the IAC, which i cannot seem to locate under the hood. At least it doesn't look like the multiple pictures I've seen. Before i start tearing apart my engine, can anyone provide any advice.

FYI, I'm stationed in Germany so getting parts will be a bit of hassle, the german repair shops are way expensive and the one on post is not to be trusted, so as much as i can repair and fix on my own, the better. TIA!

 

[Bobmbx]

Sounds like your AC compressor is locked up, and the belt is screeching on the immovable pulley. Take off the belt and try to turn the compressor by hand. It should take "firm" pressure to turn it. If you have to struggle or it doesn't turn at all, its hosed. Try disconnecting the clutch electrical connector and see if that allows the pulley to spin freely.

 

[tm7677]

I'll try that in the morning. Is this a common problem? If the compressor is locked up, is that something I can fix myself or will I have to order a new one?

 

[tm7677]

Okay, so as a quick test of the compressor, rather than take the belt off I unplugged the sensor/power cable, then started the engine and tested the defrost. No high pitched grinding noise, though granted the defrost didn't get very warm. Turned off the engine, plugged the cable back in and repeated the process...noise was back. Ergo, thus, visa a vie... Bad compressor. Thanks for the help! Now I know where to go from here!