Auto Air Conditioning & Heater Repair: A/C Compressor gap setting, center bolt, air gap


Question
I am trying to find info on setting a new compressor gap setting for a 96 buick regel 3.1 6cyl. The new compressor asks to refer to the owners manual for the gap.  also the center bolt is the only way I can see to change the gap, does this sound correct?

Answer
Bob,
The air gap setting for your compressor is as follows:
If you have the HD6/HT6 compressor or the HD6/HR-6E Compressor the air gap setting is .020-.030" (.38-.51mm)
If you have the V5 compressor .015-.020" (.38-.51mm)
This gap is adjusted by the use of shims  around the compressor shaft not.
Theoretically, if you still have the old compressor you should be able to use the same shims. But always re-verify the air gap after you get it assembled. These gaps can be finicky sometimes dependent on the strength of the clutch coil itself, so if it slips a little at high rev, take a shim out and try again.
A simple check... with the engine on, the gap should not change. Insert a piece of construction paper into the gap. Have someone turn the a/c on, and that paper should get snatched out of your hand with alot of force. Just do this SAFELY. I don't know how cramped your compartment is, if it is cramped, don't try it.
I hope that this response was of some help. Thank you for the question and if I can do anything further now or in the future, do not hesitate to ask. If you found this to be useful, please remember to rate this answer. Thanks again and good luck in everything.