How to change A/C compressor clutch/bearing?

[codfizzle]

Hey, I just started having trouble with a wierd noise coming from my A/C compressor pump. It still works fine and everything, but it just started making a kinda ugly squeal sound, even when the pump is not actually on.

So this lead me to believe that the clutch bearing inside the pump is shot. A replacement bearing costs about $54 at Checker, but I haven't the slightest clue the procedure for taking the pump apart to replace said bearing (especially since when I look in my repair manual in the A/C section, all it says is "Don't even touch the A/C components; let a qualified technician do this kind of work")- whatever.

I've been told that I need a special tool to remove the clutch/bearing assembley, and I've also been told that the clutch assembley and bearing come as 1 unit, but if this was the case, then why would one be able to buy just the replacement bearing?

Either way, there's got to ba a fairly simple way to do this job without taking the pump out of the bracket and without discharging the refrigerant.

If anyone knows how to do this, or where I can get a better price on the bearing, please let me know.

Thanks!

[Legacy777]

I tried removing the pulley with a proper tool and it didn't budge. In all reality, you probably won't be able to get the pulley off.

Sorry that's not much help....but these damn compressors suck....