Greetings,

My 1996 Ford Ranger is having compressor issues. Towards the end of september no air would blow when I turned on the AC or the heater. Then, about 2 weeks ago I noticed a grinding/squeaking sound coming form the belt area. The pulleys are good and the belt is new, so I took it to a mechanic. He quickly identified that it was the compressor going out. There is a pulley for the belt that is connected to this compressor, so I am under the impression that if the compressor quits it would take the belt, and the engine with it.

Here are my questions:

1) Is it true that the compressor going out would cause the belt to slip or lock up, thus ruining my engine?


2) Do I have to replace the whole compressor or is there a repair kit available?


Thank you for your help.

 

well when the compressor locks up it will take your serp. belt and throw it...meaning you will lose power steering and the altenator...but the compressor failing wont take the engine with it

 

You will loose the water pump, but you would notice an issue and more then likely stop driving before any damage would happen. It also could just be the clutch that needs replacement. Which are available for around $80-100

 

good point...forgot about that