2006 AC Compressor fail still drive?

My AC compressor failed yesterday. It was pretty dramatic as it steamed and that dye went everywhere out the back.

I brought it to a local mechanic and it was going to cost 1300 to repair. I couldn't swing the payment.

My question is can I still drive my truck until I can afford the repair. Do I risk other issues?My truck with 173k is starting to nickel and dime me. Looking for help.

 

It already blew out everything, just don't attempt to reengage the ac. You will be fine.

 

Thanks Roberto, so you don't anticipate any issues with the pulley system or clutch?

 

I'm dealing with the same issue on my 2004 (earlier generation) today. Just dropped it off at the mechanics' for a new compressor tomorrow. I ended up snipping the AC drive belt and calling it a day. Not sure how the belts are routed on a second gen, but you might be able to isolate the AC compressor using a similar method just for peace of mind.

 

serpentine - no snippy snip

 

Ahh bummer. Wasn't sure how the 2nd gen's were routed. Definitely a no-go there.

 

It would keep you from causing more damage...

 

Not sure if you have a 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder. Regardless, if you can currently idle the engine without snapping the belt, then you should be able to run without A/C for a while as long as you don't try to engage it (and remember that defrost also engages it). For the 4 cylinder, member tooter bypassed the compressor by removing some idlers and running a shorter belt.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2-7-dyno-charts.285741/#post-7142874

 

ecoterragaia, great point about the defroster........

 

It's a v6. I will need both to work here in Colorado. 1300 big ones is going to hurt. Maybe swing it in a month or so.

Really thinking hard on trading it in. I would like a new truck, this may be the final straw as the last couple months have not been kind. U joints, front wheel bearing, paint on roof/clear coat coming off, now AC. Love the truck, never has left me stranded, but it's 10 years old and I feel I'm going to see more and more of this.

 

If you're up for a day challenge you could pick up the compressor on RockAuto.com or some other discount site, install, and fill with refridgerant.
Lines should be good still if the compressor just went bad. I had to take off my compressor to get to the pulley behind it when I replaced mine.
It was a REALLY quick fix once I got the 4 bolts that hold the compressor off.

 

Also, maybe you want to pull the fuse for the AC to prevent it from going on ever. then it will just spin while your serp belt is going and not engage when you turn the windshield air on.