Need Advice for Broken A/C Clutch

[JKP]

Update: I'll be installing the new non-AC serpentine belt today or tomorrow, which will buy me some time to read the FSM and explore my options. If I do end up buying a new compressor, are there any recommendations on brand or model? Maybe they're all the same, but I've learned on this forum that for some parts (radiator, fuel pump), that there are some clear preferences in terms of brand.

Edit: For example, RockAuto has these brands:

View attachment 279757

Edit: @pagrey or @qslim or @CharlesHS, do you have any recommendations here?

Check the manufacturer of yours. If Sanden, which I think it is, you can buy directly from them at sanden.com.

I picked up the clutch assembly for my YJ from them. New OEM parts at reasonable price.

 

[SSTJ]

Check the manufacturer of yours. If Sanden, which I think it is, you can buy directly from them at sanden.com.

I picked up the clutch assembly for my YJ from them. New OEM parts at reasonable price.

Thanks. It's interesting that although mine is indeed a Sanden, Sanden's site doesn't offer 1997 (my year) as an option. Nor 1996. I tried 1998, and aside from a three-letter suffix on the model number (not sure if that matters), the model number matches. But it's $100 more than the replacement options over on RockAuto, so I think I'll pass on Sanden.

 

[JKP]

 

[SSTJ]

View attachment 281342

Yep, that’s the one. Mine doesn’t have the suffix “AFT“, but I doubt that matters. The real dealbreaker was the cost, which looks about $100 more than rock auto.

 

[SSTJ]

Ok looks like I will probably be replacing the compressor too. I'm still wondering about the brand options listed here.

Also, anything else I should have the shop do while they're at it? @qslim, I was reading another post somewhere and saw that you recommended another user go ahead and also replace the condenser, and maybe some other part as well.

 

[qslim]

Ok looks like I will probably be replacing the compressor too. I'm still wondering about the brand options listed here.

Also, anything else I should have the shop do while they're at it? @qslim, I was reading another post somewhere and saw that you recommended another user go ahead and also replace the condenser, and maybe some other part as well.

I can't comment on the brands because I haven't ever had to replace my compressor, so hopefully other folks will chime in with recommendations.

If you're opening up the system to replace components you're going to want to replace the receiver/dryer. It's basically a canister of desiccant that absorbs moisture from the refrigerant. When you open the system up & expose it to atmosphere its always a good idea to install a new one along with whatever other component it is that you're replacing.

I personally would not mess with the condenser unless you suspect that the internals of the compressor have fragged out and contaminated the system to the extent that a flush won't remedy, but if that's the case you'd want to replace the evaporator under the dash as well. Or unless you just want to overhaul the AC system & do everything at once. Or if its leaking, obviously.

 

[SSTJ]

I can't comment on the brands because I haven't ever had to replace my compressor, so hopefully other folks will chime in with recommendations.

If you're opening up the system to replace components you're going to want to replace the receiver/dryer. It's basically a canister of desiccant that absorbs moisture from the refrigerant. When you open the system up & expose it to atmosphere its always a good idea to install a new one along with whatever other component it is that you're replacing.

I personally would not mess with the condenser unless you suspect that the internals of the compressor have fragged out and contaminated the system to the extent that a flush won't remedy, but if that's the case you'd want to replace the evaporator under the dash as well. Or unless you just want to overhaul the AC system & do everything at once. Or if its leaking, obviously.

Got it, thank you!

 

[SSTJ]

Thanks again everyone; this has been very helpful. Just placed an order for this compressor kit. Local shop has agreed to let me provide the parts and just pay them for labor at what sounds like a reasonable price.