OEM 2001 Dodge Caravan A/C Clutch

2001 Dodge Caravan A/C Clutch Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Replace the A/C Clutch on 2001 Dodge Caravan?

  A: Before changing the A/C compressor clutch, separate the battery negative cable and raise the vehicle. Toss out the serpentine drive belt and afterward, disconnect the engine wire harness connector for the compressor clutch coil from the clutch coil pigtail wire connector located at the compressor. Remove all screws that hold the compressor to the engine except the screw at the upper left which you should only loosen slightly so the compressor will tilt downward while changing the clutch. Tighten the screw and then remove the bolt holding the compressor shaft with a band or strap wrench if needed. Lightly hit each side of the clutch plate with a plastic hammer so that it and any shim(s) attached come off and you don't misplace them. Slide off the bottom pulley after removing the external snap ring that holds it with snap ring pliers. Take off the screw connecting the clutch coil pigtail wire connector bracket and ground clip. Then, pop off the outer ring that holds the coil to the compressor housing and remove the coil. While installing, place the dowel pin of the clutch coil through the slot on the front cover of the compressor and prevent the pigtail wires from being squished. Use a fresh snap ring to hold the clutch coil, with the outside of the bevel side flush against the side of the engine. Put the screw back into the clutch coil pigtail wire connector bracket, then install the pulley to the compressor front cover, tapping it if it does not go in easily. Only use a new snap ring to connect the clutch pulley and see that it is completely seated. If you're reusing the clutch plate and pulley, fit the old shim(s), but if both need to be replaced, add a set of 1.0 mm shims. Screw the clutch plate onto the compressor shaft, put the wrench on the compressor shaft nut and tighten it to 17.5 Nm. Make sure the space between the clutch plate and pulley is correct when you have put in new parts. Put four screws into the compressor and tighten them to 28 Nm with the engine mounting bracket. Attach the wire harness connector for the compressor clutch coil, set the serpentine accessory drive belt in place, lower the vehicle and link the battery's negative cable. If you install new clutch components, you have to burnish them.