94 SLS AC noise

1994 SLS, when the AC is off I am getting alot of noise from the compressor area. When I turn on the AC the noise subsides. I am still getting heating and cooling. My mechanic says the AC Compressor and Drier need replacement. Does this sound right? Can't the clutch just be bad? Does anybody have any ideas. Was told this is a least a $700 - $800 job.

Thanks

The front of the compressor has a sleeve that sticks out that has a bearing pressed onto it. This bearing turns ALL the time. I don't think it's your bearing, which is a cheap fix. I don't think it's the compressor, as it's not rotating internally when the system is off.

It sounds as if the clutch assy may have deformed or fried once before and is just making noise between the clutch plate and the clutch itself.

You should be able to tell what's happening if you watch closely while someone turns the system off and on.

Don't go for the 700 fix... they are prolly liars...and/or crooks..

I forgot to ask. Does the noise just "subside", but still there or does it go away completely?

If the noise just "changes" but is still there, it could be the carrier bearing for the clutch assembly. Still cheap. Go to a junk yard and see if you can get a new clutch assy. Take the old one with you to confirm its the right one.. I suspect that any GM clutch assy would work. You'll probably have to pull the compressor out, use a puller to get the clutch off, and after installing the clutch, you'll have to evacuate and recharge the system.

Thanks for your input. Unfortunately, the clutch seized up and
started binding up on the belt. Had to have entire system replaced.

Thanks again