A/C issues noise whiring / gringing noise. Help please!!!

[big boy]

Hi all,

I am hoping that someone in the hinterland can point me in the right direction.

deli400 today started making a horible noise (mechanical grinding / whiring - sounds like about 100hZ+/-) whenever the A/C turns on - could not hear where it is from at the moment as I dont want to leave it grinding (sounds awful). First thought was that the compressor is stuffed or the idler bearing is shot. removed the belt as it is winter I don't need the A/C right now and that way I can check the idler pully bearing at the same time. Bearing seems fine figured time to start saving for a new compressor. Started the van again WO belt on A/C and as soon as A/C is turned on or kicks in grinding noise again. Does not seem to change pitch with revs. but I have not had the time to trouble shoot further.

My next place to look is the condenser fan and see if that is the culprit.
From there I will need some guidance as I don't know what else would be affected mechanically by the A/C turning on.
I don't think it is an IP issue as the van runs fine otherwise.

any help will be GREATLY appreciated.
Brent

[psilosin]

Sounds like mine. Something went haywire with the front condenser fan. Pulled the fuse until I can get it fixed...no more horrible noise whenever the ac gets triggered by the defrost or auto climate setting.

[big boy]

Cheers,
That is what I was thinking. I will check that out in the morning.