96 Cherokee AC help needed

Fatherof3 · #1 (**permalink**) 06-24-2008, 11:25 PM

Hello,
I just bought my first Jeep. 96 Cherokee Classic and I love it. I have wanted one for some time now but it took awhile for me to find what I wanted that fit my budget. It's funny how money does that. Anyway, except for some driver seat wear and a few dings in the paint, it looks new.

I do have one mechanical question though. When I turn of the AC it sounds like I have released demons from under the hood. It sounds like the belt is making a horrible screeching noise. The AC did need to be recharged. The compressor does seem to be working but not making the air near as cold as it should. Could the noise be the belt, compressor or both?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Saurian · #2 (**permalink**) 06-26-2008, 11:04 PM

Assuming the compressor is OK, check the tension on the belt. Usually after I have replaced/serviced my serpentine, I will test it at full load; all electrical on and on high for maximum resistance at the alternator, air conditioning on for resistance at the compressor, and hit the gas a couple of times... If it's going to squeal, it should do it then. Hopefully, it should just be a loose belt, which would explain the lack of cold if it's slipping on the compressor instead of driving it...

A more expensive option would be the compressor bearing, or the clutch... Start with the belt, hope for the best, welcome to Jeepz, good luck with the rest :)

Fatherof3 · #3 (**permalink**) 06-29-2008, 10:09 AM

Thank you Sir.
Due to work and three kids, I don't get much time online anymore. That's why it takes so long to reply.
The belt seems to be ok as far as tension and its condition. I have a feeling it's the more expensive route, the compressor. However, I will probably replace the belt at the same time. Since I bought the Jeep used I will be replacing just about anything that looks like it might be old or worn out just so I know what I'm dealing with. I don't think that will be too much though. Like I said, the Jeep is in great condition.
Thank you for the welcome. This is the only Forum that I'm a member of, but, so far I like it. I hope to get some more time to spend on it.
Again, thanks for your help.