Air Con Clutch? What/Where?

[edryn80]

What is it? Is it like a normal clutch?

If it was going wrong would it fill my cabin with a burning smell when I switch on the AC? Cos I have thatz.

 

[Josh@Renparts]

yes its a centrifugal clutch type setup, so yes if it was worn it would.

 

[edryn80]

I had it on for months then at the weekend switched it off for a while, (windows down and system up). Switched it back on and ...smell....

 

[foxspeed]

mmmm thought the a/c compressor clutch is an electromagnetic clutch as it has an electrical feed to it - press the switch and a electrical winding pulls the hub in to engaugement that the reason for the loud "click" when its switched on

 

[edryn80]

I see.

Any other suggestions of the source of the 'burning'?

Really dont want to take it Renault but looks like it might have to, pain in the arse with having to rip the dash out. £££

 

[foxspeed]

are you sure its a "burning" smell - a/c systems can create a breeding ground for bacteria which makes funny smells if its not used for a while thats why they sell those canisters you let fill the interior with chemicals and put the a/c on recirculate - it draws in the chemicals to the heater matrix/heat exchanger and it this kills the bacteria - hence no smells

the compressor is in the engine bay driven by the auxillarly belt (fan belt)

 

[edryn80]

I'm pretty sure its a burning smell, a bit like when you switch on a home radiator/heater after it being off a while and the dust burns. Will have another whif later though.

I have heard about the AC 'bombs' on here so might give it a go, will do no harm.

All good fun.