Auto Air Conditioning & Heater Repair: 1992 Maxima A/c, clutch replacement, internal compressor

Question
My Maxima has been making a growling noise from the area of the compressor for nearly 5 years now. The A/C cools great, even on 95 degree days. I have recently decided to have it looked into. My problem is that one A/C specialist says that it is likely the clutch, as a compressor likely would have gone away completely in the 5 years. The other expert says that I need a compressor and all the other parts. I would like another opinion. Is it possible that the sound could be solved with just a clutch replacement? Thanks in advance. This A/C on this car has cooled perfectly since new (my parents are the original owners) and I believe has only been recharged once about seven years ago. The noise is only there when the A/c is on.

Answer
This is a tough one to diagnose WITHOUT actually hearing it myself. The problem could be either the clutch and HUB BEARING or the rear internal bearing or internal compressor components.

I wish I could be more precise, but I need to hear it.

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