I don't know for sure yet if I need one. I'm just prepping. But the clutch is smoking when the AC is on (which only stays on for 5 second intervals). It takes some effort to turn it by hand when the engine is off.
Installed is part number 88964849.
Hopefully itll be ok to drive with the AC off. I assume as long as the clutch doesn't engage, I wont have me a fire.

 

Most compressors will be remanufactured, so brand is largely immaterial.

If the pulley is spinning freely with the AC off, you can just unplug it or leave it off and it wont cause any problems aside from not having AC or defrost. The short cycling is most likely due to the system being low on refrigerant, but if the clutch is smoking it is time for a reppacement. I have never seen a AC compressor cause an engine fire, but there is always a first time. Just replace it and the other related components with a full kit from a reputable supplier, but most compressors will not have a warranty if you install it yourself.

 

Is it usually just best to get a completely new unit, or find a replacement clutch/pulley assembly

 

Compressors build pressure, with no air flow or an overcharge they can lock up. Have you put a gauge set on it? Is the fan moving air?

 

I have had bad luck the the couple of Reman AC compressors's I tried, decades ago.

I have installed 3, "Four Seasons " brand NEW AC compressors and / or compressor Kits, with GREAT results! They even answered my questions, when I telephoned Four Seasons. Rockauto and Amazon both sell them.

I recommend you search craigslist and Facebook Marketplace, for the CORRECT R12 refrigerant. If so, only buy the 12-14 OZ cans of genuine R12/ Dichlorodifluoromethane. The propane sized R12 tanks, can easily be "Faked".

 

Yea there's plenty of flow. I had a gauge on it but its been a while and forgot numbers. So today I emptied the system and hooked up a vacuum for a few minutes. It's holding at about -20.

 

I might not have made it clear, but its a R134a system.

 

What year is your car? I thought all Third Gen F bodies were R12 AC systems? Unless yours had R134A installed?

 

Its a 92. When I bought it with 85k miles, it had 134a already.

 

But now that its empty, i need to find out it's capacity. I assume 30 ounces ?