GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 39200 Digital Multimeter

Removal Procedure

    Important: 

       • Discharge and recover the A/C system refrigerant, and remove the compressor from the vehicle, before performing compressor repairs and procedures.
       • During service of the compressor, prevent dirt and other foreign material from getting on the compressor parts and into the system. Clean tools and a clean work area are essential for proper service. Keep the compressor and the parts clean at all times.
       • Clean all of the parts that you will reassemble with a suitable solvent, and air-dry the parts.
       • Use only lint-free cloths to wipe the parts.
       • Drain, measure and discard the remaining refrigerant oil when the compressor is removed from the vehicle. Add the same amount of new oil when the repairs are complete.

  1. Remove the compressor from the vehicle. Refer to Air Conditioning Compressor Replacement .
  2. Important: Use a new pressure plate nut upon installation.

  3. Remove the pressure plate bolt and the washer from the drive shaft.
  4. Remove the pressure plate from the drive shaft.

  5. Object Number: 345609  Size: SH
  6. Remove the clutch pulley snap ring (1) and the shim, using the appropriate snap ring pliers.
  7. Important: Do not damage the clutch pulley during removal.

  8. Remove the clutch pulley from the compressor, using a plastic hammer.

  9. Object Number: 345610  Size: SH
  10. Remove 1 screw (2) and the clutch coil wire retainer.
  11. Remove the clutch coil snap ring using the snap ring pliers.
  12. Remove the clutch coil from the compressor.
  13. Inspect the following parts for excessive wear and scoring:
  14. • The pressure plate
    • The clutch pulley
    • Replace parts as necessary
  15. Measure the clutch coil resistance using the J 39200 . Measure the resistance between the clutch coil wire connector and the compressor case.
  16. Replace the clutch coil if the resistance is not within specifications.
  17. Clutch Coil Resistance
    4.0-6.0 ohms at 20°C (68°F)

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the clutch coil to the compressor. Secure the clutch coil with the snap ring.
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.


    Object Number: 345610  Size: SH
  3. Install the clutch coil wire retainer to the compressor. Secure with 1 screw (2).
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the clutch coil wire retainer bolt to 2- 2.5 N·m (17.7-22.12 lb in).


    Object Number: 345609  Size: SH
  5. Install the clutch pulley to the compressor. Secure with a snap ring (1) and a shim.
  6. Install the pressure plate to the compressor drive shaft.

  7. Object Number: 345612  Size: SH
  8. Adjust the clearance (2) between the clutch pulley (3) and the pressure plate (1).
  9. Pressure Plate-to-Pulley Clearance
    0.3-0.5 mm (0.012-0.020 in)

  10. Replace the shim in order to obtain the proper clearance.
  11. Install the pressure plate washer and a new nut to the compressor drive shaft.
  12. Tighten
    Tighten the pressure plate nut to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).

  13. Install the compressor to the vehicle. Refer to Air Conditioning Compressor Replacement .