Auto Air Conditioning & Heater Repair: 2002 Suburban A/C noise, metal shavings, metal debris

Question
My suburban makes a ratcheting noise with the A/C on at moderate RPMs.  The noise comes and goes. It does not make this noise while the engine idles or with the A/C off.  The A/C works OK.  What is causing this noise and will I do any further damage if it is not repaired immediately?

Answer
Hello Pete, Sounds like you got a/c compressor that has some internal wear. Kind of a common GM problem. Most GM compressors last about 60k miles. Recommend replacing compressor and accumulator. Be sure the system is flushed before new parts are installed and recharged. Have orifice tube inspected for metal debris that may come from your old compressor.Metal shavings is a positive sign of a failing compressor. Please inform me of your results.

Good Luck, DaveT