Compressor Clutch: Service and Repair

A/C Compressor Clutch Overhaul

Special Tools Required

- A/C Clutch Holder Robinair 10290 or Kent-Moore J37872, commercially available
- A/C Clutch Holder Honda Tool and Equipment ACT499A, commercially available

1. Remove the center nut (A) while holding the armature plate (B) with a commercially available A/C clutch holder (C).






2. Remove the armature plate (A) and the shim(s) (B), taking care not to lose the shim(s). If the clutch needs adjustment, increase or decrease the number and thickness of shims as necessary, then reinstall the armature plate, and recheck its clearance Testing and Inspection.

NOTE:

- The shims are available in three thicknesses: 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.4 mm, and 0.5 mm.

- Do not pry on the armature plate with screwdrivers or similar tools. Prying damages the armature plate and the rotor pulley.

- When replacing the clutch set, place a trial stack of shims, 1 mm total thickness, on the A/C compressor shaft. Install the armature plate, and check its clearance Testing and Inspection. If the clearance is not with specification, add or subtract shims as needed





3. If you are replacing the field coil, remove the snap ring (A) with snap ring pliers, then remove the rotor pulley (B). Be careful not to damage the rotor pulley and A/C compressor.

NOTE: Do not hammer or pry on the rotor pulley to remove it. Using a hammer damages the A/C compressor. If the rotor pulley is difficult to remove, use a commercially available rotor pulley removing tool. Make sure the jaws of the pulling tool engage the back face of the rotor pulley, not the rotor pulley grooves.






4. Remove the bolt (A), then disconnect the field coil connector (B). Remove the snap ring (C) with snap ring pliers, then remove the field coil (D). Be careful not to damage the field coil and A/C compressor.





5. Reassemble the clutch in the reverse order of disassembly, and note these items:

- When replacing the field coil, check that the new coil has the correct resistance Testing and Inspection

- Install the field coil with the wire side facing down, and align the boss on the field coil with the hole in the A/C compressor.
- Clean the rotor pulley and A/C compressor sliding surfaces with contact cleaner or other non-petroleum solvent.
- Install new snap rings, note the installation direction, and make sure they are fully seated in the groove.
- Make sure that the rotor pulley turns smoothly after it's reassembled.
- Route and clamp the wires properly to prevent damage by the rotor pulley.

6. Cycle the A/C clutch approximately 20 times by running the engine at 1,500-2,000 rpm and setting the climate control temperature to Lo with the A/C button ON. This procedure seats the clutch friction surfaces, and increases clutch torque capacity.