Auto Air Conditioning & Heater Repair: a/c compressor and clutch, metal shavings, clutch plate

Question
I have a 1995 Toyota Avalon. The clutch on the a/c compressor is definitely fried. How do I tell if the compressor is bad also?

Answer
Glenn,
There are three good ways to determine for sure that your compressor is also in need of replacement. The first is by looking at the pressure readings. But being that your clutch is shot, this won't work for you. The second is to grab the clutch and pulley and try to turn the compressor. It should turn with a bit of resistance. If it is locked... replace it. And finally... when you have removed the compressor to have the clutch replaced, drain the oil from it through the high and low side manifold openings. You will have to rotate the front plate if you want to remove it all, but once you get some out, look at it. Do you see ANY metal shavings, or is the oil a light brown color? If so, replace it. Good oil should be a clear or light yellow color, dependant upon what type they put in at the factory. As for metal... if you see any metal shavings at all... replace it. It doesn't have to be alot.

Of these three methods, the best would be to drain and check the oil. I say this because, even though it may turn over when you rotate the clutch plate, that doesn't mean that something isn't going on inside it. Your oil will tell you for certain.

I hope this was of some help. Thank you for your question and if you found this at all helpful, please remember to rate this answer. If I can do anything else to assist now or in the future, please do not hesitate to ask. Good luck in everything.