Repairing or installing a A/C compressor by

REGALDRIVER

MEMBER
1996 BUICK REGAL

Recently my starter went out after gasing up before a long trip (500+ miles), I changed out the starter and replaced the battery. All issues that arose out of the blue to me, by the way. When I replaced the serpentine belt, I started the car when the a/c compressor seized up on me. I purchased a bypass pulley, but do not know how to put it on. If I had a diagram of how to take the a/c compressor off, or some instructions I could do it. I used the diagram of how the starter was to fit in order to replace it. I am not greatly mechanically inclined, but I am determined and half way smart enough to figure out how to repairs if I know where to start. Any help would be greatly appreciated. My funds have been exhausted by the recent plummet in the oilfield, which is why I am doing the repairs myself. If I can get my car running to get back to work, I can guarantee that I will be able to make donations for you guys. Atleast $50.

1 Reply

ZACKMAN

MECHANIC
4,202 POSTS

Based on the diagram, you don't have enough clearance to install a shorter belt to bypass the AC compressor pulley.

In order to remove the compressor, you must first evacuate all R134a refrigerant in the line. Most AC shops will do this for little money, as they will keep your refrigerant, instead. Once the work is completed, you will then need to go back to them to evacuate the air from the line. Entire system must be vacuum before introducing new refrigerant.

There are 4 bolts holding the compressor to the bracket.

If you don't want to do that, and if only the AC clutch seized, and if you have enough room for the pulley puller to work, you can try replacing just the AC clutch/pulley.

(Won't work if the entire compressor seized). O'Reilly and Autozone will have the pulley puller you need to complete the job. Direction on how to use the puller should be on the box.