V6 Air Conditioning Compressor Seized Up

[Crisbecky]

Hi all,

I've recently discovered the Air Conditioning Compressor / Pump on my 1997 Petrol V6 Bongo has seized up and wondered what the implications might be?

I know ideally I need to source an exact replacement part (S09C61-450D) as hose patterns vary and they seem pretty darn expensive - £1300 new, £300 second hand!

I haven't really ever felt the need to use the aircon on the Bongo and have only used it a couple of times in 3 yrs... this winter to help with de-misting when I discovered the issue. (Hence, I also worry if compressor is replaced what other expensive perils/repairs might lurk in the air con pipework / system.

If I don't replace the compressor does it just mean I can't use the air conditioning or does it have any other implications for the vehicle?

If it only affects the air-conditioning I wonder if it might just be cheaper and more sensible to just disconnect the aircon switch so it can't be turned on by mistake thus avoiding risk of stalling or further damage.

Any input welcomed.

Cheers, Cris

[teenmal]

The safest way is to remove the drive belt .

Take care

[nth]

Not sure what the V6 belt layout is like but the diesel has a separate belt just for the A/C so it can be removed no problem.
If the V6 has a different belt layout then that might not be possible.
I take it it’s only siezed when the clutch engages ? Does it freewheel fine with the A/C off ?

[teenmal]

They have a dedicated AC pump drive belt, if you are not too sure how to remove it simply Cut it, will probably be damaged anyway with the pump seizing when engaged.

Take care

[Billybongo123]

I will have a good pump next week? Cheers Marc

[Crisbecky]

Thanks all for the advice.

Removing the belt certainly seems like the thing to do if I don't replace the compressor. With my limited skills and tools I think I might just cut it.

If I were to do this can I just confirm that the internal heater and fan blower will still work and I will just lose the seldom used aircon function?

Having looked through the forum it seems a fair few bongos are in this state with disconnected compressor drive belt and no adverse side effects - hope I'm right!

Marc - if your compressor is the right one (Red label/sticker no. S09C61-450D) I would certainly be interested. I think the code needs to be an exact match else hoses might not fit.

Cheers, Cris

[Crisbecky]

sorry Nth missed details of your post - yes all works fine when aircon not on.

noticed problem over Christmas when tried aircon to help with demisting - bit of squealing noise a bit disconcerting so quickly switched off.

Tried to use a couple of days later, switched on aircon when idling at traffic light and engine stalled when attempting to pull away.

As said, since then has been fine (just avoiding air con), passed MOT but advised that compressor seized. Not sure how rest of system is and whether will work with a new compressor or will just be opening up a whole expensive can of worms for a function that I rarely use.

Much as I'd like all to be in full working order, got to be realistic and watch the pennies.

Cheers, Cris

[g8dhe]

Might be as easy to unplug the electrically operated clutch, then you don't have to play with any belts, and it can be restored by just reconnecting the plug. The clutch and connector is at the front of the compressor.

[teenmal]

If you decide to keep the drive belt make sure it is in good condition ( after being run with a seized pump), if the belt snaps it could cause serious damage, also the tensioner assy.

Take care

[Crisbecky]

Thanks for all the help - I might have look and see if I can disconnect the electric clutch as might be easier than removing/cutting the belt.

Is there just a fairly obvious electrical connection to remove from the compressor / pump unit ?

Cheers, Cris

[Crisbecky]

Apologies, just read your reply more fully!! Must concentrate more.

Shall attempt to identify and remove the wire from front of compressor unit and then consider whether to cut the belt too. I don't think I have the tools or skills to remove the belt in tact.

Thanks all, Cris