replacing bearing in a/c compressor 2002 v6 auto

I have the NSD bearing for my a/c compressor, watched all the available vids, read all the available write ups, long story shorter, I took my 4 runner in to a mechanic to get it on a lift before purchasing it and everything looks pretty good. Nevada its whole life, no rust, 244k, one owner. The mechanic said he thinks the bearing in the compressor (not idler) could be making some noise and of course quoted me 2k for a new ac install. I did some hunting around and have seen write ups on pulling the front of a/c compressor off, then the clutch assembly and replacing the noisy bearing inside that unit. What I haven't seen, is many people that have done this. I'm hoping someone can reach out and let me know how this went. I'm replacing the radiator, belts, hoses and heater valve so I will have good access to the compressor. This is my first thread on this forum howdy everyone

 

Wow 2K! A replacement compressor off of Rockauto is ~ $200. The removal and install is relatively easy job. I think PS belt and PS pump itself need to come off before you have access to the compressor. Of course the system will have to be recharged afterwards. This may add another $200 depending on the price of the refrigerant where you live. Having said this and where you live, there may be laws in capturing the old refrigerant and this may complicate things.

 

2k was for an entire system-compressor, dryer, condenser, etc. My system hasn't been compromised so the route I wanted to take was to replace the bearing. I know that pulling off the front, removing retainer clip and pulling clutch and pulley will let me make repair without having to open the system. It just doesn't seem to be a popular subject on the forums

 

OK 2K for the whole system. That makes better sense.
I have never done what you're thinking to do. I suspect the bearing gets press fitted inside the housing. How would you do that w/o removing the compressor?

 

The clutch comes off with removal of a 10mm bolt, then a thick retaining clip to remove the pulley. Its that retaining clip that I was hoping someone would chirp in about, I bought a new set of snap ring pliers just for this. The bearing is inside that pulley. Tapping it out and inserting the new bearing should be easy. Then put back together. Im doing this in conjunction with install of new radiator so there should be plenty of clearance.

 

I have not done what you're planning to do. Having said this if there is a retaining ring around the shaft, why can't you use your ring pliers to remove it?

 

Thats why I bought the new set. From what I have read it can be a booger to get out.

 

I did some search on you tube and found videos on the removal of retaining ring. They all seemed relatively easy but then in your case, access may to the retaining ring may not be easy. Looks like you're leading the process on how do this for the 3rd Gen 4Runners. Please keep us appraised on what you learn.

 

I think the the mystery question about this procedure is adding a new component to a compressor that is 19 years old. My reasoning is that my system isnt compromised, she blows cold air, secondly I don't need to compromise it to complete this procedure, I cant see spending 2k on an entire new system on a vehicle I've only had for less than a month, I have more pressing repairs and maintainance to complete. And finally, the bearing cost me $38 and Im going to be removing the radiator anyhow, so access is at a premium. About that retainer clip........ I will be doing this later this week I'll be sure to post pics

 

I would replace the entire clutch. They burn out at about 200k miles or so. When mine burned up, I replaced the entire compressor, refilled it with oil and refrigerant and after 40k miles she still works fine.

Replace the bearing if you think it needs it, but since you're in there, you may as well replace that clutch. I wish I hadn't ordered the compressor since when I got the old one out and looked at it, it was just the clutch that went. Probably could have kept the entire system sealed instead of draining and refilling.

 

In hindsight I probably would, but because I just purchased the runner there were multiple areas I wanted to address that when I do, will start threads about them, like the radiator, all fluids, heater valve and general cleanup. I'm only the second owner, and she has 244k on the clock, nevada it's whole life. Thank you for your response, it was appropriate, and something I definitely thought about when deciding to go the bearing route.