CBDenver

Thanks all for any input. I have a 1997 4runner 3.4L that is having some AC woes currently. Has 202,200 miles and I just had the timing belt, thermo, belts, water pump, etc. all done again with Toyota brand parts. Radiator is not too old (<50k miles on it) and I get the coolant, and transmission flushed about once a year each. Radiator fins are clean.

AC normally blows cold but in stop and go traffic sometimes the Ac goes warm and the truck will start to overheat. When this has happened I turn off the AC, turn on the heat, and engine temp drops immediately as you would expect.

The compressor and AC clutch are original, and I have the same question as everyone, should I go ahead and get both replaced at this point or does it sound like just the clutch on the AC?

Thanks
Chris

Ironmike4x4

Sounds like the fan clutch is going bad. In my shop if I'm going to have to take the compressor out with that many miles then I'm replacing the whole compressor, receiver dryer, and orifice tube.

Ironmike4x4

*correction* Apparently our vehicles do not have an orifice tube but uses and expansion valve.

vital22re

iTrader: (2)

Start with a fan clutch. If your vehicle starts to overheat, ecu turns off the ac to preserve the motor. You have an overheat issue that needs to be resolved.

CBDenver

Thanks all for the help and postings. Had the AC compressor and clutch checked out and it checks out fine. Was a little low on charge, so they recharged system after evacuating it to inspect components.

I think the problem lies in the fact I don't have a clutch fan, been running a taurus mod fan for several years. Did not have an overheating problem til this summer. I've been searching and reading and think I might go back to stock setup to avoid these problems.

Anybody have any good sources for getting clutch/fan oem unit since I can't find mine that I took off way back when? Or if anyone has one used to sell let me know please.

Thanks
Chris