Shrieking when AC clutch engages - not belt

[geodude]

I guess I should say, I really don't think it is the belt. The noise is more like a a rotozip than a shrieking belt.

Anyway, no noise until the clutch engages and then the noise. I also had light smoke at one point. Any ideas?

I'm trying to decide if it is the compressor or clutch. I'm leaning toward the compressor right now.

One more piece of info, it hasn't done this before and now all of the sudden it is.

 

[stamp11127]

Sounds like the compressor is seizing. Smoke may have come from the belt sliding over a non moving clutch. I wouldn't run the system anymore. If your lucky it hasn't trashed the system too badly making the system clean up easy.

 

[geodude]

Thanks. I was going to take the truck in to get a transflush anyway. Guess I'll have them replace the compressor too.

 

[stamp11127]

A good shop will diagnose the problem before replacing parts. A belt will also squeal if it is loose so that is something to check before replacing the compressor.