1999 F-350 Air Conditioner Problem

[woodbutcher1953]

Hello, I've got a 1999 F-350 with 257,000 miles on it. The air has not been working properly all summer. I had to take it in to Ford to have a couple of recalls fixed so I had them do an AC system check. They said the clutch was failing and want $675.00 to replace the clutch and compressor. The price includes labor ready to blow cold air again. The symptom on the system is that it will blow cold air when I first start the motor, but not for more than 5 to 10 minutes, then I get warm air. They checked the freon levels and said they were OK. My question is, could I just have just the clutch replaced, or should I go ahead and have the entire thing changed out ? I'm a carpenter, not a mechanic, and rely on information I get here and from others. I'd appreciate any opinions/advise on this. I'm tired of sweating on the way home from work every day. Also, can I take it to any competant mechanic to have it fixed, or do I need to have the dealer or an AC shop do it ? Thank you.

[Eric]

Try this first A/C compressor clutch not engaging all the time

[Byrnedw]

Mine was doing the same thing, removing the shim washer to tighten the air gap on clutch as described in Eric's post above fixed it. I used a 10mm wrench and large channellocks to hold clutch disc. Cost nothing but 10 minutes of my time.

[ProOnThaSnow]

Clutch fix is where I'd start. Its cheap, easy and works most of the time to solve the problem you're having.

[Budha]

Just pulled out the washer on my clutch plate today. 8mm socket on a 1/4 ratchet and a few mins.......seems to be working great now.

Here's another link to check out. Adjusting Clutch Gap on the Ford FS10 Compressor

[woodbutcher1953]

Not to be totally stupid, but do you have to first loosen the belt to remove the clutch ? I'm going to try this fix myself, but I just want to make sure I don't screw something up in the process. Thanks for the help. I appreciate it.

[Budha]

Originally Posted by woodbutcher1953

Not to be totally stupid, but do you have to first loosen the belt to remove the clutch ? I'm going to try this fix myself, but I just want to make sure I don't screw something up in the process. Thanks for the help. I appreciate it.

No, you don't have to. The trick is to turn the ignition on (do not start the engine) and turn the A/C on to engage the clutch. This will lock the clutch and keep it from spinning while you loosen the 8mm bolt. Then turn the A/C off (and ignition) to disengage the clutch for removal. When you go to tighten the bolt, turn the ignition and A/C on to engage the clutch again.

[woodbutcher1953]

Thank you for the quick response.

[woodbutcher1953]

Just wanted to let you know that I tried the clutch fix, and it worked !!!!!! I fixed it a couple of days ago, and so far, good, cold air. I was sooooo pleased when this little 10 minute fix actually worked. Saved me around $675.00, at least for a while. I want to thank everyone who replied to my question, I really appreciate the guidance and help.