A6 compressor bearing and clutch replacement

[Philoprof]

The clutch bearing of the A6 compressor on my 380sl is chattering. So I was wondering if I could replace it and the clutch while the compressor was still on the car, if I removed the radiator, shroud and fan first.

There's a great slide show for repairing the A6 compressor at
P52117 Image Large Photo 1; and as far as I can tell, the only tools I'd need is a socket set, hub puller, pulley puller, and snap ring pliers

I'd replace the compressor, too, but it's working fine, and I'd rather not get into everything that would involve if I don't have to right now.

Any advice, especially from anyone who's done it, would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Bill

[Roncallo]

Did many of these on GM cars, never on an MB but the compressor is the same and so are the rules. If you can get the tools in place you can do it.

[Philoprof]

Thanks for the response. However, after considering whether to replace just the clutch or the whole compressor, I decided to do the latter, given that I think the compressor is probably 30 years old, and will go sooner or later.

So, I ordered a new ACDelco A-6, and I'm also going to replace the receiver/drier. But I haven't really decided whether I should also replace the expansion valve, considering how difficult that seems to be, and/or any of the hoses, as I don't want to create problems where there are none.

Any advice from anyone who's done this before would therefore be appreciated.

Regards,

Bill