OEM Dodge Neon A/C Clutch

Dodge Neon A/C Clutch Parts and Q&A

• Repair Kit
  5014572AA
  Q: How to Service and Repair an A/C Clutch on Dodge Neon?

  A:

  The very first step in clutch service or repair is to take off the compressor assembly from its mounting without allowing the refrigerant to escape. First, use a band type oil filter removal tool to access around the clutch plate and remove the compressor shaft bolt. To remove the clutch plate and any shim(s) by hand, simply tap it with a plastic hammer after the clutch pack is separated. Don't insert screwdrivers in the gap between the clutch plate assembly and pulley to preserve the equipment. After that, take off the snap ring securing the pulley with the Snap Ring Pliers and pull the pulley assembly straight off the compressor. Lift up on the coil wire bracket/ground clip screw and wire harness to release them from the side. After removing the snap ring that holds the field coil, move the field coil to remove it from the compressor housing. Make sure to check the frictional surfaces of the clutch pulley and front plate; if there is too much wear or scoring, change them. If the felts get wet because the shaft nose is oily, open the front cover and remove the felt; then, apply a suitable seal. If the bearing is rough or if grease is coming out in excessive amounts, you should replace it. After aligning the pin in the back of the field coil with the hole on the compressor end housing, put the field coil in place, guide the wires correctly and attach the field coil bracket/ground holding screw. Use a snap ring with the notch side outward, seat it with pliers and push it all the way in to avoid the clutch failing. Attach the pulley assembly to the compressor by gently striking the top with a block of wood and secure it using the retaining snap ring (the bevel should be outward). Should you reuse the front plate and pulley assembly, place the old shims where they were, but for a different job you'll have to stack trial shims of 2.54 mm (0.10 in.); install the shims on the shaft against the shoulder, then mount the front plate assembly. If the front plate and pulley assembly are replaced, measure the gap between the front plate and pulley with a dial indicator while the clutch is energized and change the shims as needed to get a reading of 0.35 to 0.65 mm (0.014 to 0.026 in.). After that, fit the compressor shaft bolt, tighten it to 17.5 ± 2 Nm (155 ± 20 in. lbs.), verify the air gap in various spots and rotate the pulley once more for accuracy. Run an A/C clutch cycle 20 times (5 ON for 5 OFF) in A/C mode, with about 1500 - 2000 RPM and with high fan speed to help the clutch function at its best.