2001 Tacoma a/c issues

My a/c works sometimes. Normally only when it's cool outside. Never when it's hot. When it doesn't work it starts squeezing very loud. I am assuming it's the clutch on the compressor. My question is if it is the clutch would I be better off replacing just the clutch or should I go ahead and replace the whole compressor. Also could it be from something else. A/c works good when it works but just blows hot air when it starts aqueeling.

 

Sounds like the clucth is bad but you could check the freeon first to see if you got enough. squeaking usually means the bearing is bad and it's keeping the clutch from engaging like it should.

If the freeon is good then you could take the clutch out and check the bearing for damage if the bearing is good the clutch could be the next thing.

My Tacoma's ac clutch runs about 150 and to replace the whole compressor costs about 500, that's vaccum and recharge included.

I got lucky when Mine was squeaking because I took the belt off right away and kept it from completely damaging the pulley and the compressor. It turned out to be the bearing it took me almost 6 months to work on it and after 30 bucks on the bearing, miscellaneous parts and 2 hours of work it cools to the point where I have to turn it a little warmer. I live in Florida so that should give you an idea.

 

The clutch went out in mine a few years ago. I was able to grab a whole compressor for $60 from a 2004 being parted out after he had an accident. Shop swapped it out & recharged for $240.

 

You need to tighten the belt.

 

Or maybe even replace.

Start with the low hanging fruit.

 

I'm replacing my bearing on my clutch. It's not to bad

 

Don't over tight your belt that's how my bearing got destroyed