Aircon compressor

[Dave]

Yesterday I noticed that the aircon temperature wasn't as cold as usual. Then there was a slight rubber burning smell. Then a squealing of rubber. Then a smouldering broken rubber belt in my rear view mirror bouncing along the M3.

The belt to the aircon compressor had come off.

Either I'm lucky and it just needs a new belt, or it only broke 'cos something seized horribly.

The question is; should I be able to turn the compressor pulley wheel by hand (now the belt's not there)? I can't, but they are quite meaty compressors, so maybe that's normal.

Also, any good aircon specialists in the Southampton area?

Thanks.

[almcl]

With the ignition off and thus no power to the compressor clutch, the pulley should turn reasonably easily.

If yours doesn't, it might be that a seized compressor was what led to the belt failure...

[Dave]

Thanks. Just looked and it's totally solid.

Any idea what make / model and where to buy from would be best?

[almcl]

Your local air con shop can quote, so can David Manners and SNG Barrat, you'll need a regas and and might as well change the reciever drier tube as well.