A/C Compressors & Clutches for Land Rover Freelander

AC Compressor and Clutch for Land Rover Freelander

The compressor and clutch of the Land Rover Freelander are vital components of a well-functioning air conditioning system. The compressor clutch controls the speed of the compressor and aids in keeping the cabin comfortable for passengers and the driver. No matter what year the Freelander was manufactured, keeping to the service schedule is the best way to keep the compressor and clutch working well during those warm days.

The AC compressor in a Land Rover Freelander with manual transmission power the air conditioning system from the flywheel attached to the engine crankshaft. Land Rover Freelander models with automatic transmissions use flex plates to get power to the A/C compressor. Once powered, the compressor changes the temperature of the air expelled into the vehicle cabin by using pressurized refrigerant. The compressor clutch is activated when the AC is turned on. It works with the compressor by controlling the refrigerant flow.

• Refrigerant gas leaks: Refrigerant gas leaks can be caused by a leaky AC compressor. A malfunctioning O-ring, seal, or hose can also cause them. Refrigerants are imbued lubricating substances that help prevent friction inside the compressor. A refrigerant leak can add wear and tear to the compressor and should be corrected quickly.
• Malfunctioning compressor clutch: If the clutch is not operating optimally, it will not engage with the compressor properly. That means that the compressor will have difficulty maintaining the pressure needed to liquefy the refrigerant gas, resulting in warm air.

The following general steps can be taken when replacing the compressor and clutch assembly.

• Locate the compressor in the front of the engine. Using an evacuation machine, recover the refrigerant from the system.
• Find the serpentine belt tensioner, and rotate the tensioner to slide it away from the belt.
• Slide the belt off the pulleys and disconnect the compressor from the electrical connectors.
• Use a wrench or ratchet to disconnect the compressor pressure hoses.
• Plug the pressure hoses for safety.
• Remove the compressor mounting bolts and pull out the compressor.
• Prepare the new compressor by removing the dust caps and adding lubricant, if needed.
• Replace the o-rings on the pressure line. Place the compressor in the vehicle and mount using the mounting bolts.
• Unplug the pressure hoses and connect.
• Attach the electrical connections, and slide the belt back on the pulleys.
• Have the system recharged.