89 Jetta A/C Problem

Mark · Posted: Sat Jun 21, 2003 6:34 pm Post subject: 89 Jetta A/C Problem

...so my fiance's 89 Jetta GL air conditioning starts acting up, (it's summer - go figure). When we turn it on, a horrible screeching sound comes from under the hood, the generator light comes on & the car wants to stall. Has anyone here experienced a similar problem or have any advice? Near as I can tell, it's a problem with the compressor and/or compressor clutch. I just would like to know if there is something I can check or test before <damnit> taking it in for repair. Thanks.

Mark · Posted: Sat Jun 21, 2003 6:38 pm Post subject: 89 Jetta A/C Problem

..oops, alternator light. Used to dealing with older Air Cooled.

Tram · Posted: Sat Jun 21, 2003 8:01 pm Post subject: 89 Jetta A/C Problem

Sorry, Mark, but you need a compressor. They'll also want to replace the receiver- dryer and expansion valve, as they should. The only other thing could be that the system is OVERCHARGED and is going into hydrostatic lock. If you recently had someone look at the system and add refrigerant, the idiot may have overfilled it, and you may still need a compressor, but maybe not. If no one has messed with the system immediately prior to this happening, you need a compressor and the other stuff.

Mark · Posted: Sun Jun 22, 2003 10:17 am Post subject: 89 Jetta A/C Problem

Thanks for the info. I was afraid of an answer like that, but what can you do right? Summer's here & now's the time to fix it.

[email protected] · Samba Member Joined: June 28, 2003 Posts: 3

I had this same problem on 2 other cars (not VWs). In both cases it was a siezed compressor and the noise was a slipping belt. I had to bit the bullet and lay out some bux for new ones. Sorry!

Mark · Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2003 6:09 pm Post subject: 89 Jetta A/C Problem

Yeah, oh well. We took it in to a guy we trust & he had a look at it. Of course, it wouldn't make the noise described when he was checking it, but there was quite the show of sparks when he looked closer at it! Basically, it could end up costing almost as much as we paid for the car itself, which is not an option for us. He suggested isolating the system & disconnecting the A/C. It's just as well, since we're going to be looking for something newer/more reliable when we start a family. Happy Canada Day weekend to everyone here north of the 49.


Hello! Log in or Register \| Help \| Donate \| Buy Shirts	See all banner ads \| Advertise on TheSamba.com

	Forum Index -> Water-cooled VW	All times are Mountain Standard Time/Pacific Daylight Savings Time
Page 1 of 1