Help with AC Problem

[BiggBrakefuelie]

I have not really used my AC much since I bought the Vette two plus years ago.Mainly because it always made a funny moaning type of sound when being used.Once in awhile it will work and blow semi cool.The compressor has a label on indicating that it has been converted to R134.
Recently I turned it on with the hood up and watched in horror as it rattled badly enough to put me in fear of throwing a belt.The belt actually started to whip like it was going to fly right off.
Does this sound like something that is common? Does it merely need charged,serviced etc. or might there be a more serious problem? Broken up compressor?
Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[bill81vette]

sounds like you may just have to tighten the belt up.bill

 

[90 KOTH]

Belt guide on lower brace

You may want to check to see that you have all the proper brackets and braces on the compressor. I seem to recall a lower brace that has a flat piece of steel approx. 1.5" x 3" welded to it adjacent to the belt that serves as a sort of guide for the belt and limits how much it can flap around. It is present on my 79 but not sure about other models

Phil

 

[76okievette]

I think Bill is right, check the tension of the belt. What you describe sounds just like what mine was doing and all it was was a loose belt.

 

[crause]

I am with the the others, it sounds like you need to tighten the belt. Since it is so long, a little extra tension might be necessary. If mine is not tight enough it will do the same thing you described.

Andy

 

[Bob Chadwick]

Several other members have posted about this problem, including myself. The tight belt limits the vibration but there is still a tendency for the belt to hit that plate at idle and make a sound like metal rolling around in a tin can. Just the slightest increase in RPM's and the sound goes away.

A water pump going bad will increase the vibration as well.