Replace a/c compresser on 03 GT?

[jcleugers]

I need to replace the A/C compressor on my 03 GT (265,000 miles).How difficult is it? Anyone done it before?

[vibedrivermatt]

Well I've never done it but it looks difficult. You can see the service procedure in the online service manual sticky over in maintenance bay which is good because you have a 2003. I think this would be a fun one to learn and attempt. though much easier and less stuff to think about to pay and have it done.

[fss106]

make sure its the whole compressor you need to replace, i just need my clutch coil replaced, also have an 03 vibe gt-- and i heard some places try to tell me you have to buy a whole new compressor, they don't sell the clutch coil by itself-- which they do... i'm planning on attempting the swap in about a week or two weather pending..

[jcleugers]

Thanks. It is just the clutch; figured it would be easier to do the whole thing. Maybe I will rethink; need to research how to replace.How do you like your GT? What gas octane do you use? Mechanic friend said just to use regular not premium. We get, driving speed limit, on the highway, around 34-36 mpg and have noticed no difference in performance; still is as quick as ever.Do you have to replace your front brakes 3x your rear pads?

[jcleugers]

Thanks. I haven't looked at manual/repair yet. Just hate to have to pay someone else if I can do it myself.

[vibedrivermatt]

heres some links. a few parts of the manual about the compressorhttp://madstyle1972.com/Repair...n.pdfhttp://madstyle1972.com/Repair...1.pdf

[fss106]

My GT is great, mostly because its mine-- I've had my problems with it but I'm also pushing 140,000 miles. This A/C clutch compressor thing has lingered for awhile-- I have the parts, just not the motivation to attempt to hang the compressor and hoses from my hood while I pull off the clutch... The dealership wants to pull the whole compressor off but I'm told its not necessary. I use middle grade octane-- in the mountains its 87-- when I was at sea level it was 91. the other issue i've had is my check engine light-- which I've now determined is a bad catalytic converter-- theres another repair I've been putting off. Kinda hard rationalize when I'm still getting about 37 mpg.