Hello,

Has anyone ever changed an R4 A/C compressor clutch
(Trooper 2.8L V6). I bought a reman'd R4 compressor and clutch last year and the compressor is fine but the clutch will not engage sometimes.. I have checked my battery and alternator and both are putting out properly. I find that if i tap the front of the clutch when the A/C is on it will engage. Has anyone ever changed this A/C clutch without evacuating the system? I know there is a tool used to get the clutch off but i am not sure which one, as there are many out there.. i have read that the clutch is a press fit with a bolt on the end. any help is appreciated...

you might check the airgap first, as too much gap will cause your problem. the air gap can be adjusted easily
by tapping the hub back using some type of "socket" that protects the compressor shaft. gap should be .036-.042

AFAIK you'll need snap ring pliers (I bought a cheap Harbor Freight set for $10) and a GM R4 clutch puller/installer like RobinAir #10861 (under $20).

I need to adjust my gap too (pull shim(s)) since the clutch won't engage unless I whack it with a rubber mallet...haven't done it yet.

R-4 compressors do not use shims. They are a
"press-fit", therefore you press the hub off or on.

the gap can be closed simply by tapping the hub back in the center. DO NOT TAP ON THE VERY CENTER, IT IS THE CRANKSHAFT OF THE COMP. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/butwiggle.gif" alt="" />

Guys,

thanks a lot for the replys....

after reading the post i went outside and tapped the front fo the compressor with a hammer (firmly) to reduce the air gap and the now the compressor cycles perfectly without needing a tap on the front of the compressor occasionally...

Question: The compressor has worked fine for the past 2 days
(believe it or not 80 degree daytime heat in louisiana). Is there anything i need to do to make sure that the air gap does not go back to where it was? do i need to tighten anything or is it kept in place with with the press fit as mentioned earlier?

Thanks Again for the advice...

It won't move if nothing is worn out.

Glad it worked out for you.