1996 Chevy S-10 AC, belt problem

EWERBECK

MEMBER
1996 CHEVROLET S-10
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
109,000 MILES

A few weeks ago, I began to notice that the AC compressor seemed to put quite a load on the engine when on. I kind of ignored it. It got to the point where when the compressor clicked on, you could hear the difference in the load and feel a slight reduction in HP.

During the same time, I noted it took a while to cool. Now, it seems to be not cooling at all (or close to it).

Here comes the kicker. Yesterday, right when I notice the AC isn't cooling, I smell rubber. I turn the AC off, the smell goes away. I haven't looked at it yet. I'm hoping this is a belt or tensioner issue, as I replaced the compressor a couple years ago (refurb).

5 Replies

2CARPRO JACK

MECHANIC
11,533 POSTS

Have you tried watching the compressor while running to see if it is trying to lock up? Could be the tensioner, but usually you hear a squeeling noise fom the belt, this sounds like the tensioner is holding, but the comp may be trying to stop

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Monday, September 8th, 2008 AT 7:29 AM

EWERBECK

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3 POSTS

Well, I started the engine with the AC off, then turned the AC on. The engine cut out completely. OK. so I turned the ignition to the off position, turned on the AC, then cranked the engine. It struggled for a second but kept running. I noticed a tiny bit of squeal, but I'm not sure where it was coming from. I didn't notice that the compressor was trying to turn off or anything, it looked like it was running ok. I started to smell the rubber again and noticed a bit of smoke coming out from what I think is the compressor's clutch. I'm not sure if it is actually the clutch smoking or it is the belt that is smoking. I did notice that the clutch area was very hot after running for only 20 seconds or so. Just to make sure I'm talking about the clutch, here's a pic. It was coming out of the right side (closest in the photo).

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Monday, September 8th, 2008 AT 8:14 AM

2CARPRO JACK

MECHANIC
11,533 POSTS

That is the a/c clutch, but it is probably the bearing that is bad if it is smoking with a/c off. Try removing th ebelt and seing if the hub spins free and smooth, if not the bearing is bad

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Tuesday, September 9th, 2008 AT 7:23 AM

EWERBECK

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Just smoking when the AC is on, otherwise there's no problem. What would make it stall when the AC is turned on?

I'll try your suggestion, but I'm thinking it'll spin.

Your assistance is appreciated.

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Tuesday, September 9th, 2008 AT 8:03 AM

2CARPRO JACK