So within the past week my 4runner had developed a squell/howling sound under acceleration and to some point while at idle. The noise eventually started happening upon start up as well. So I took it in too a local shop today to have them look at it. I explain to the service manager the problem and we got out to my vehicle too start it up and lol and behold the noise generates upon start up.

I get a call a little before noon and they tell me that the A/C Compresor/Clutch is shot and that it needs to be replaced (along with tow other parts). They also mention that the electrical pig ttail that plugs into had a severed wire and that it also needs to be replaced.

They quote me $850 w/o tax. :mad:

Needless, to say I didn't get the repairs done yet as that's alot of $$. They did however leave the belt off and the noise has disappared.

I'm now wondering how in the world the A/C Compressor/clutch would go out in the middle of winter. When the a/c isn't even being used. Let alone how the pig tail wire became severed.

How hard is it to change out the said parts? Should I just order new parts or just try to get by with a junkyard compressor.


My 2000 4runner currently has about 144,xxx miles on it.

 

aa1911 replaced his compressor recently. There is not a detailed writeup but it may give you a good idea of what is involved.

https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/c...84/index6.html

 

I believe the compressor is "on" any time the front windshield defrost is used. So it is possible that it's been in use during the winter.

 

I'd just get a junkyard compressor, but I am cheap.

The wire can just be re-connected with a butt connector, or if you've got the room, soldered and heat shrinked. Wiring is super easy, and not worth paying someone else to do it!

From what I remember, the AC compressor isn't too difficult to remove but I am maybe thinking of the 22re.

 

Anyone now the part number for the idler pulley bearing? All I been able to find is the pulley itself.

 

I don't believe there is a separate bearing sold (none listed, anyway). You MIGHT be able to get a match at a bearing store if you can get it out and take it to them.

 

These are probable two really stupid questions but I thought I'd ask anyways.

1. Would there be any problems with running the vehicle without the ider pulley on it (going to see wheat he part n# is on the bearing)? The belt is already off of it and has been since the shop looked at it.

2. Would not have the belt on the idler pulley, ac compressor effect gas mileage at all? Since I got it back from the shop after they looked at it I've been getting about 14 mpg a drop of about 3 to 4 mpg.

 

Does the hub on the front of the ac compressor need to replaced as well or can it just be resued.