Noisy AC Compressor 1989 camry

Hello, I have a 1989 camry with approx. 172,000 miles on it. For the last 2 summers the ac compressor has been getting louder than it should be. It makes sort of a scraping type of noise like it needs to be oiled. The ac still works great (knock on wood) even though compressor is noisy. Does anyone know what could be wrong. does the compressor need to be rebuilt/ replaced? is it just the bearings that need to be replaced? Could I rebuild the compressor myself; and if so, would I have to get the ac system recharged after a compressor rebuild?should I just leave it be and hope it lasts another summer? If the compressor seizes up the main belt will snap. :mad: any Help/advice will be welcome. Thank You. JOET/CAMRY

Hello, I have a 1989 camry with approx. 172,000 miles on it. For the last 2 summers the ac compressor has been getting louder than it should be. It makes sort of a scraping type of noise like it needs to be oiled. The ac still works great (knock on wood) even though compressor is noisy. Does anyone know what could be wrong. does the compressor need to be rebuilt/ replaced? is it just the bearings that need to be replaced? Could I rebuild the compressor myself; and if so, would I have to get the ac system recharged after a compressor rebuild?should I just leave it be and hope it lasts another summer? If the compressor seizes up the main belt will snap. :mad: any Help/advice will be welcome. Thank You. JOET/CAMRY
WOW 26 people read my post and no responses. :mad: :disappoin oh well. I did some searching of the camry forum and found out that the noise is most likely a worn bearing. I think (correct me if I am wrong)the ac compressor has one bearing that is turning all the time when engine is running; and another bearing that is turning only when the ac compressor clutch is engaged. The bearing that turns only when the ac compressor clutch is engaged is the one that is probrally worn because when the ac clutch disengages the noise goes away. I guess I will wait untill compressor completly dies to replace it.I thought I could rebuild it but can't find a rebuild kit from auto zone,advanced auto,pep boys,napa, etc... :feedback: :killbarne JOET/CAMRY