dismantling the A/C clutch (archive)

: Can someone describe to me how to dismantle the AC compressor clutch? When I bought my 82' 320i, I was told the clutch on the compressor went. The idler pulley and belt were removed and put in the trunk. I looked at the compressor, but can't figure out how to remove the clutch. I'd like to look at it before just buying a new one (~$90). With the summer months approaching, and high-humididty of NYCity area, I'd like to get the AC functional. The system still has freon in it. The Haynes manual is useless in describing the repair of the AC components.
: Oh yeah, I also have to figure out how to reattach the idler pulley. Anyone have a blow-apart diagram they could scan and email me?
: Thanks

first you have to remove the lock ring and hex nuts at the front of the clutch and then carefully take all other lock rings and spacer ring out as well as trhe wheel bearings.
If your problem is that the cluch doesn't lock on the compressor (free move), then maybe the spacer ring is too wide or the electrical part of the cluch or system fails... it can also be one of the relay inside the car (on the A/C blower) or the A/C swich that you turn to select to desired strength of cold.
If your compressor is always in contact with the cluch... has no free move, then you want to put a larger spacer ring but not too large though, because you don't want to turn into the other problem.

http://www.angelfire.com/de2/hartge/h3french.html

Follow Ups:

Thanks...I'll give it a whirl Lance 10:47 5/02/2000 (0)

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