The A/C Compressor Clutch on my 1996 965 is about to break... two out of 3 of the flex coupling strips on the front clutch face have broken from stress flexure... the clutch is getting noisey when dis-engaged (perfectly quite when engaged)... the compressor works great... is it possible to replace the compressor clutch without disturbing the compressor? Are any special tools required? Calls to two area shops want to change out the entire compressor assembly for between $800.00 & $1300.00.

TIA

Hey Richard:

The 700/900 FAQ has some info on this: http://brickboard.com/FAQ/700-900/HeatingAirConditioning1.shtml#Compressor_Clutch_Failing

The quote you got sounds like a lot to do the compressor. Check some websites for what a compressor costs and consider doing some of the work yourself or getting a quote from an AC shop. I think you can get a new compressor for around $300.

Good luck with the car!

Hi:

I know there is a special tool for this job my mechanic friend is getting ready to repair my clutch in my 87 240. He bought the tool to pull the clutch and said it works great.