Pontiac Repair: 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM GT, clutch side, compressor life

Question
Thank you for your time. Can the compressor leak freon from the clutch side? Ive put detector in the system and seems like its showing green all over the clutch and a nearby hose but more towards the clutch.
Thank you so much

Answer
Hey Mike:
Yes it can It's not actually the clutch that's leaking it's the front seal on the compressor. It is replaceable but you need a bunch of special tools to remove and install the clutch and hub assembly and also to install the seal properly so you do not rip or damage it when you slide it over the shaft.  You may be better off looking into a remanufactured compressor and go that rout and save your self the head aches. what ever you do, DO NOT add any type of "stop leak" into the system.  The clutch is more than likely flinging the dye onto the compressor hose. The only catch 22 to replacing the compressor is most places require you to replace the accumulator or deceiver dryer on the system to validate the warranty on the compressor. They can get pricey so shop around and lastly but not least if and when you replace the compressor and dryer assembly drain all the oil out of both units and measure it then add that same amout of oil + about 1 to 1.5  Oz. more This is extremly critical for compressor life and for proper cooloing. If you add to much it will degrate the cooling if not enough you will damage the compressor. Good luck :}