Replace Ford Windstar AC Clutch Bearing in Vehicle?

Joined
Oct 2, 2009
Messages
94
Location
VA
Clutch bearing has failed in 2001 Ford Windstar. Can the bearing be replaced without disconnecting the lines and removing the compressor from the vehicle? I know I need to take the compressor loose, just not sure I can position it to access the clutch. If it needs to be removed I will have to take it to a shop.
 
It's on the bottom like a Taurus isnt it? If im thinking right Theres no room for much under there. I think that's the one would loosen the subframe to get the compressor out.

Personally I would not bother with a clutch on a compressor that old because when the bearing fails it overheats the front seal which then leaks the refrigerant out.
 
Step 1 for servicing the clutch on a Windstar is to "remove the compressor." Since I'm not overtly familiar with your van I'd wager it's simply inaccessible while mounted on the engine.

1783002509935.webp


You should have a Nippondenso FS10 compressor, which has a fully replaceable clutch and coil assembly. It's advisable to replace all of it instead of the bearing only.

In addition, the clutch and coil are press-fit units which show a few special tools for removal (although these could probably be fabricated).

Bottom line is Chris142 is probably right. It's not worth screwing around with all of it when you can buy an entire compressor kit (with clutch & coil, accumulator, orifice tube, expansion valve) for under $200.00.
 
I'm surprised that thing is still on the road!
Most around here died from premature transmission failure (my dad had two, same issue on both).
 
It's on the bottom like a Taurus isnt it? If im thinking right Theres no room for much under there. I think that's the one would loosen the subframe to get the compressor out.

Personally I would not bother with a clutch on a compressor that old because when the bearing fails it overheats the front seal which then leaks the refrigerant out.
Yes, compressor is on the bottom. But it is not as open as the Taurus. There are videos of clutch removal from Taurus compressor and it's not bad. On Windstar I would need to access from above where it is much less open.

Yes, van is old, But $1500 for shop replacement is too much. I might try it myself, but still a lot for me (actually father-in-law) to do it: $500 parts plus freon charge.
 
Step 1 for servicing the clutch on a Windstar is to "remove the compressor." Since I'm not overtly familiar with your van I'd wager it's simply inaccessible while mounted on the engine.

View attachment 345937

You should have a Nippondenso FS10 compressor, which has a fully replaceable clutch and coil assembly. It's advisable to replace all of it instead of the bearing only.

In addition, the clutch and coil are press-fit units which show a few special tools for removal (although these could probably be fabricated).

Bottom line is Chris142 is probably right. It's not worth screwing around with all of it when you can buy an entire compressor kit (with clutch & coil, accumulator, orifice tube, expansion valve) for under $200.00.
Where can I get a kit for $200?
 
I'm surprised that thing is still on the road!
Most around here died from premature transmission failure (my dad had two, same issue on both).
Van has 120k miles on it. It drives well and tranny shifts good for now. It has had a couple of transmission fluid changes over the years. Could use another change to hopefully keep it going.
 
Back
Top Bottom