I have a 97 F150 w/ a 5.4. The AC compressor is making an awful noise like it's grinding inside. I took it to a shop and was told it needed to be replaced and the whole job w/ the parts would be about $900. Is this guy tryin to screw me over or what? The compressor is only $230 and it's supposed to be a 3 hr job. Is this something I should be able to do myself or should I try another shop? Is the truck drivable like this?

 

If the compressor is grinding, it may be contaminating the system, which will have to be flushed and possibly additional components replaced.

 

At $900 yes you would be getting pregnant from him.

BRAND NEW Compressor, $250
New Condenser $150
New Accumulator $50
orifice tube $5
Labor and servicing on a 2-3 hour job,, $400+?

Truck is drivable unless its the Clutch bearing making that racket.
Clutch bearing noise is constant, doesn't matter if the AC is on or off.

If its the clutch bearing just the Compressor and accumulator needs replaced.

A clutch bearing could be replaced, but the compressor still needs to serviced on the bench, not under the truck, and the heat from the bad bearing can cause the seal to prematurely leak. Parts and labor on the bearing replacement would be higher than a NEW compressor.