AC Compressor Flames!

[dizzy2006]

Two days ago my ac went out on my 03 Expedition. It was blowing nothing but hot air, so I checked the fuse today and noticed it was busted...so I replaced it to see if that was the problem, well about 30 seconds after turning the ac on, I noticed a very strong burning smell (like metal burning) and noticed flames and sparks coming out of the compressor. I'm going to go out on a limb and say that it probably needs to be replaced right? You guys have any tips on doing that or know where I can get a good price on a new compressor? By the way, the temp has been 100+ in San Antonio lately, so I need to get this done like yesterday!

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[Patman03SprCrw]

you can get a remanufactured compressor and save some money

[Bugman1400]

That sounds more like the clutch than the compressor. The clutch may cost ~150 bucks, but the compressor will cost a ~$1000 since the system will have to be opened. If it is the clutch then you may not have to open the system. The clutch is an electromagnet and can sometimes be replaced without replacing the whole compressor. You can easily check to see if it is the clutch by using a ohmmeter/voltmeter. If the ohmmeter reads infinite resistance across the terminals then your clutch needs to be replaced.

[dizzy2006]

Thanks bugman, I didn't know that the clutch could fail separetly from the compressor. I'll be sure to check that first. You might have just saved me a whole lot of money.