Toyota Tacoma AC Not Working – Weird Noise When Off, Fuse Blows – Any Ideas?

I have a 2001 Toyota Tacoma (3.4L V6 4x4) and I’m currently having issues with the air conditioning system.

At first, I noticed a rubbing or unfamiliar noise coming from under the hood. Interestingly, the noise would go away when I turned off the AC switch inside the cabin. The AC itself still worked when I needed it, but I could tell something was starting to fail—so I used it sparingly.

Today was the first hot day of the season here in North Carolina, so I had the AC running more than usual.

That’s when the AC indicator light stopped working. I checked and found that the 10A AC fuse had blown. I replaced it, but it blew again instantly. Now, the AC indicator light no longer turns on, and that same noise under the hood continues—even when the AC is switched off.

Here’s the sound it’s making now [insert audio/video link if applicable]. I’m thinking the AC clutch bearing may have failed, but I’d really appreciate any other insight based on these symptoms!

 

Yep, sounds like the bearing in the magnetci clutch has failed... when it locks up it will melt the belt right off of it. Get it fixed asap.

 

I’m planning to get it fixed as soon as possible— In the meantime, I read that disconnecting the wire going to the AC clutch can temporarily bypass the issue. Is that true, or would that cause other problems?

I just need to find a trustworthy mechanic in the Raleigh, North Carolina area.

Also, for what it’s worth, I’ve heard this noise before coming from the same area. Back then, turning off the AC switch inside the truck would make the sound go away—not sure if that’s relevant now, but I figured I’d mention it.

 

Before this happened the AC was working great, I'd like a less intensive intervention if possible...
The local Firestone here of course thinks I need to replace the compressor, the receiver dryer and do an EVAC Recharge... it seems though that all I need to do is replace the AC Clutch Assembly - Toyota part # (88410-35340)

This part includes the Clutch, Clutch Assembly Magnet

Any thought?

 

Yes, it is an easy job. The only issue is laying on the ground and fiddling with it. If you go this route... in between the outer and the inner portion of the clutchs snout/hub there are washers that space the outer portion of the clutch from the inner, I do not remember the spec right now you are going to have to look that up. There is a circlip/snap ring required for removal and that might require you to buy the correct tool.

 

Mine did the same thing and burned the belt off. I got a used compressor and just swapped it in. Not a terrible process, just remove the power steering pump and you can pull the compressor from the top. If I remember correctly the AC belt is the outermost so you can just slip it on and tension it. Also a good opportunity to flush the steering fluid and clean the filter.

 

Ok great so is it just the AC Clutch Assembly ? - Toyota part # (88410-35340) or do I need to replace the entire compressor?? The compressor seemed to be working fine and it was blowing cold air.

I understand that AC systems can be quite complex, and I want to make sure nothing important is overlooked. At the same time, I’d prefer not to pay for work or parts that arn't necessary. Before this failure, the system had been working fine overall.



Thanks

-Y