AC Failure with Reduced Engine Power

[Prkr21]

My 2005 Buick LeSabre recently had the AC go out and after some research, I believe it was due to the compressor seizing. It no longer blows cold air and there is a significant knocking / screeching noise if it is turned on, in addition to the engine RPM's being reduced. Current estimates for replacement are too expensive for this old of a car, so I'm willing to just go without AC. I would like to know if it is safe to continue driving the car without AC, as I'm not much of a mechanic and do not entirely understand the serpentine belt system. Do I need to install a free wheel pulley or something in place of the compressor? Should I remove any fuses to ensure the compressor doesn't turn on? Please let me know if there's anything I need to consider or that I may be able to fix.

 

[cjpayne]

There's an electrical connector that goes to that compressor that can be unplugged, but it needs to be out of the way of any moving or hot parts(i.e. exhaust). Remember that your defrost button will also activate that compressor too.

I, personally, would have the compressor replaced. I've had the bearings go out in those too and completely lock up........clutch and all.

 

[ulycyc]

They do sell a ac compressor delete kit with bolt on pulley and belt around $100. But if your taking it to repair shop the labor will be the same as installing a new compressor. Only difference is for Freon, oil, seals and what ever else is wrong with your system. If your keeping the car I would fix it right.

 

[JGBuick]

Agree with the above posts. Just do not let that compressor engage again! It's shot.

This means that the entire A/C system has been compromised at this point. Metal shrapnel and debris has most likely been floating through your lines, condenser, drier, evaporator... Costs will be more than just a compressor to fix. How do I know? Happened to me.

These modern A/C compressors (unless maintained and originally installed correctly.) are often going to overheat due to lack of oil in the system. Lubrication of the compressor is super important and I would venture to say, most A/C systems are low on PAG oil. Unfortunately, With a compromised compressor, you cannot "just" replace the compressor. (Ask me how I know.)

But... you can drive the car without A/C engaged. The A/C pully will spin but not engage unless A/C or defroster is turned on.

If you're unwilling to get the entire system repaired, then a "delete" option would be the safest option. Then again... I'm assuming your climate and temps will cooperate also. Foggy windshields are no fun.

 

[Prkr21]

Agree with the above posts. Just do not let that compressor engage again! It's shot.

This means that the entire A/C system has been compromised at this point. Metal shrapnel and debris has most likely been floating through your lines, condenser, drier, evaporator... Costs will be more than just a compressor to fix. How do I know? Happened to me.

These modern A/C compressors (unless maintained and originally installed correctly.) are often going to overheat due to lack of oil in the system. Lubrication of the compressor is super important and I would venture to say, most A/C systems are low on PAG oil. Unfortunately, With a compromised compressor, you cannot "just" replace the compressor. (Ask me how I know.)

But... you can drive the car without A/C engaged. The A/C pully will spin but not engage unless A/C or defroster is turned on.

If you're unwilling to get the entire system repaired, then a "delete" option would be the safest option. Then again... I'm assuming your climate and temps will cooperate also. Foggy windshields are no fun.

Great answer, that's essentially what the repair shop quoted. Based on some other information I gathered, I plan to remove fuse 26 and relay 32 for the AC Clutch so it has no chance of turning on again. I may look into a delete option if I feel that the pulley is no longer spinning well.
Thanks!

 

[cjpayne]

...I may look into a delete option if I feel that the pulley is no longer spinning well.....

Even if it's still spinning well, its not far behind the rest of it.

 

[HotZ28]

It would be a good idea to purchase the bypass pulley to have in stock when the clutch bearing eventually fails. The one in the link below fits an '05 LeSabre. Good luck.

https://www.amazon.com/Dorman-HELP-Bypass-Pulley-34196/dp/B000IYBBTW/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=DORMAN+34196&qid=1691010892&sr=8-1