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I did get out and have a look at the Montero this morning. I just touched the shrader valve on the drier bottle (High side I think,....there is an H on the valve cap). A blast of freon and oil shot out.


Is not necessarily an indication of proper charge.

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Also noticed that the front of the compressor, just behind the clutch is covered in a reddish brown dust,....thinking this might be ground/powdered friction material from the clutch.

Can anyone tell me where to find a clutch only?


There is an adjustment clearance for the clutch using shims. You might just need to adjust the clearance.

Possible clutch replacement here

92 Montero LS 3.0L V6 Auto, Stock, Original owner, 185,800K miles