ok I've read a lot about this on here but I'm still a bit confused...so I kept hearing a noise at idle with the ac on like a loud clicking or thump...opened the hood and saw that the ac compressor clutch was trying to engage but wouldn't...it would start spinning and stop...did it 3 times until it started...the ac is still cold though...I read that people have issues with some shim that goes in there and u have to measure something with a feeler gauge...can someone tell me where do I use the feeler gauge and where do I get the shims...

 

anyone?

 

My A/C is acting up too. Having read through the threads, I see the compressor clutch is a common problem.

There is a accessory belt pulley on the business end of the compressor. This just spins free until the electromagnet behind it is energized. Then the plate on the end of the compressor shaft is pulled in and engages the pulley. De-energize the electromagnet and springs on the plate pop it away from the pulley.

There is a gap between the pulley and the plate that is supposed to be shimmed 0.012 to 0.020 inches. My 2003 FSM states to make this measurement with the magnet energized which makes no sense to me. In that case the measurement should be zero.

Anyway, somewhere around 100K miles if you live where it gets hot and you like A/C the clutch wears out. The gap gets too large for the clutch to engage. People reshim the gap but that isn't always a cure. The clutch is worn and has been hot from slipping.

To find the shim, remove the nut on the shaft and work the plate off.

 

damn it...I guess reshimming it is worth a shot...buying a whole new compressor is expensive...

 

Owning an Evo is expensive. I ordered a clutch kit for mine which is supposed to be complete including the coil. I called the dealer yesterday and asked if it had shown up. They said they show it in inventory but can't find it. Figures.

 

I ordered mines today and they said it's special orders...3 days...anyone have a link to owners manual how to?