Cheapest way to bypass a/c compressor?

[gringobob]

Hey Guys/Gals. My a/c compressor is shot. It's grinding and making bad sounds and smells. I don't plan on keeping it the car too much longer, so I'm looking for my cheapest option. My question- can I just put a new drive belt on that bypasses the a/c compressor? I know they make them, I just dunno if it'll fit etc. It's a 1995 Explorer XLT 4.0L 6cyl. Thanks!

 

[Glacier991]

Just unplug the connector on the clutch. It cannot run once you do that and the clutch will freewheel.

 

[Doug]

If the bearings in the compressor are shot then that won't work. I'm not sure if a\c is a standard on all explorers, I can't say I've ever seen one with out it but I'd see if ford sells a belt or an idler pulley for the 4.0 with out ac.

 

[Glacier991]

Well DOUG is partially correct. I may be talking semantics.... FORD used 2 compressors on the Ex's... the fs-10 and then the fx-15 - for all outward apopearances identical. The compressor is a unit unto itself - separate and distinct from the clutch unit. The compressor's input shaft has the clutch unit mounted on it. The clutch unit is also a separate unit, with its own independent sealed bearings. THAT unit engages when a power signal is present and hence the drive belt turns the compressor because the clutch is locked when powered. If the compressor bearings or innards are the trouble for you, unplugging that clutch will allow you to drive the Ex ok (w/o AC of course) because the compressor will not be turning, only the clutch will be freewheeling. IF THE CLUTCH bearings are the problem... unplugging it like I suggested won't help.....but! a new A/C clutch is not all that expensive. However most often (90% of the time) the problem is in the compressor, not clutch bearings. I hope that clears it up. Try unplugging and see.

 

[gringobob]

I did try unplugging the compressor but it didn't help. It's still grinding regardless of plugged in or turned on/off. I bought a belt today at advance autoparts that is for a 95 explorer without a/c. I'm just kind of weary to put it on.

 

[Blockay Sockay]

My a/c compressor is messed up and I didn't want to spend more money to fix it after I had spent $500 replacing other parts of the A/C :thumbdwn: . I got a belt for a 92 without A/C at Autozone about 2 years ago and it's still working fine (except for being really hot inside the truck :fire: ).

 

[Doug]

I did try unplugging the compressor but it didn't help. It's still grinding regardless of plugged in or turned on/off. I bought a belt today at advance autoparts that is for a 95 explorer without a/c. I'm just kind of weary to put it on.

I'd just go ahead and put it on, it's not going to hurt anything to bypass the a\c compressor.

 

[gringobob]

i put it on. seems to be running fine now? Hope it lasts for a little while longer.