Hey Folks,I have a 2002 Ford Ranger 3 L V6 (2wd) which has an AC that is very intermittently cooling.

I took it to the mechanic shop and they diagnosed the issue as my AC compressor's clutch is going out which is why the AC only works intermittently. They recommended I replace my AC Compressor which requires the AC accumulator and orifice tube to be replaced as well. I asked if the clutch could just be replaced and they said that while that could work, it would likely only be a temporary solution since the compressor is old and a new clutch may push it over the edge and end up burning it out or something like that. I think it's a liability thing: they don't want to replace a clutch only for my old compressor to finally die and I come back wanting them to replace my compressor for free lol.

I would normally be okay with them repairing it, but it would cost a little over $1K which is a bit much for me ATM. The repair seems like something I could potentially do part of and just have the shop do the initial evac, followed by flush and refill + leak test once I get everything installed.

So, I'm considering going one of these routes:

1. Just replace the clutch since it would be the quickest thing I could do on my own to get a little more use out of the AC and I wouldn't need to have the system drained or refilled.
2. Replace the AC Compressor and accumulator (with orifice) myself (after having a shop evacuate the system prior), then taking it into the shop to have them perform a flush and refill the system.
3. Replace the AC Compressor, accumulator (with orifice), and condenser myself (after having the shop evacuate the system prior), then taking it to the shop to have them perform a flush and refill the system.
4. Just pay them to do the repair.

I live in an apartment, so I am limited in the kind of work I can do (I don't have an air compressor or a near by electrical outlet to plug one in so I can't do a flush myself). I also have never done AC work before but I do have my Haynes Repair Manual and videos online as a guide. I think I have have most of the tools aside from the special orifice tube removal/install tool and the tools for disconnecting those high pressure AC lines. And I do know to have the shop recover the AC refrigerant prior to doing any work on the system so I don't go dumping that junk into the air.

What do yall think? Any recommendations or suggestions?

 

I would take it for a second opinion. If it just needs a clutch that can be easily and inexpensively replaced. The mechanic you took it to, apparently has a boat payment due. Don't mention the first mechanic. Just give the second mechanic the symptoms.

 

If it's your clutch them you can test it with a meter or test light, on the clutch you'll have 2 wires. One should be positive and one should be negative (I don't really feel like looking through the diagrams for the colors unless someone wants it), turn your ac on and if the pressure switches are working and the pressure is correct then the clutch should be on and you should have 12v at the clutch. Cycle it a few times if it doesn't kick back on and you have voltage then it's your clutch. Also I learned that on these you can take the front of the clutch apart and readjust it, I did it on my ranger (2002 3L) and it worked. It's not a permanent fix but you'll get the last remaining life out of it. If memory serves me correct there is 3 washers behind it, take one out. There is a proper way to do it with how big the gap is but I don't remember what the gap is. Just wanted to say this because I went through that, and thought that someone may find this useful. Have a good day

 

I would only fix what is broken. The "might as wells" will cost you a lot extra over time. Find a mechanic that will be satisfied fixing only what is broken.