Compressor HVAC: Description and Operation

A/C Compressor and Clutch Assembly: Main Climate Control

A/C Compressor And Clutch Assembly - Clutch Components:

NOTE:
^ Internal A/C compressor components are not repairable separately. The FS-10 A/C compressor is not repairable at the dealership level. The A/C clutch, A/C clutch pulley and shaft seal are repairable at the dealership level.
^ Replacement of the suction accumulator is not required when repairing the air conditioning system, except when there is physical evidence of system contamination from a failed A/C compressor or damage to the suction accumulator.

The FS-10 is a swash plate design, 10-cylinder aluminum compressor. The A/C compressor main shaft is driven by an accessory drive belt from the engine crankshaft pulley.

An A/C clutch drives the A/C compressor shaft. When voltage is applied to the A/C clutch, the clutch plate and hub assembly (which is connected to the A/C compressor shaft) is drawn rearward by magnetic force toward the A/C clutch pulley. The magnetic force locks the clutch plate and hub assembly together as one unit.

When voltage is removed from the A/C clutch field coil, springs in the A/C clutch move the clutch plate away from the A/C clutch pulley and the A/C compressor shaft stops rotating.