A/C Clutch Bearing

What is an A/C Clutch Bearing?

An air conditioning (A/C) clutch bearing allows your A/C clutch pulley to spin on the compressor shaft, which is necessary when the A/C clutch is not engaged. This also ensures that power can be delivered to the A/C compressor when the clutch is locked and that the clutch pulley and A/C shaft can spin freely to operate the A/C system. Over time, excessive heat in the engine compartment near the A/C compressor, a lack of lubrication or contamination, and other factors can cause this A/C clutch bearing to suffer wear and eventually fail. A failed A/C clutch bearing can cause a noisy compressor, even when the clutch is disengaged. If turning the clutch pulley by hand with the clutch hub disengaged is difficult or makes noise, your A/C clutch bearing likely needs to be replaced. Determining whether the bearing failed due to age and wear or if other factors may have led to premature failure may require a complete A/C system diagnosis to ensure the job is completed correctly and the replacement bearing, clutch, and compressor last as long as possible. When you need to perform an air conditioning compressor repair, O'Reilly Auto Parts carries a variety of parts for your A/C system, including clutches, clutch bearings, and replacement compressors to help you keep your cabin cool.