2nd Broken A/C Compressor Braket in 2 years

[CulverC4]

Hey everyone,
The other day I noticed my A/C compressor vibrating rather violently at an idle of 1000 rpm. When I checked the bracket there was a crack starting at the upper bolt. This is the second time this bracket has failed within a two year period. Actually, more like 1 1/2 years. I have noticed some kind of rubbing on the frame crossmember that runs directly in front of the engine, directly in front/below the A/C compressor clutch. Any ideas why this bracket keeps failing? A friend suggested I check the engine mounts. Also, I sometimes hear a slight ringing around the front of the engine, could the harmonic balancer bearings be on it's way out, causing excessive vibration?

Thanks for your help,
Jose

 

[ecss]

If you look at the side of the compressor, it's bolted to the compressor bracket with four bolts.

There should be a small tubular shaped support brace from the top left side bolt to a stud on the passenger side exhaust manifold. There is also a support brace from the backside of the bottom right bolt to a stud on the water pump. If the braces are missing that could cause your problem.

 

[CulverC4]

I just checked the bracket for the braces you mentioned and guess what? All three supports are missing! I wonder if the shop neglected to replace them when the A/C compressor was replaced...

 

[ecss]

There should be 2 support braces.

My guess is Bubba jr. has worked on your vehicle.
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Call Jason, he might have some used braces for sale.
http://www.vette2vette.com


Here's some pics.

One brace goes from the top left compressor bolt to a stud on the exhaust manifold.

Top left bolt on compressor to bracket bolt

Other end bolts to stud on exhaust manifold.

The other brace goes from the right side bottom bolt, (attaches to the back side of the bolt) to top stud on the water pump.

Back side compressor bolt

Brace end at top stud on water pump.

 

[Robertwav1]

Don't you just love it when somebody else works on your car?

 

[CulverC4]

Thanks for the pics ecss, I'm taking her in tomorrow morning to have the bracket and braces installed.

 

[vetteoz]

There should be 2 support braces.

Should be 3 braces.
One also from behind idler pulley to stud on fuel pump block off plate.