tantheman

On a '95 LS 400 with 110k miles, air conditioner compressor is starting to "hum" when engaged. Does anyone have experience with this problem? Is it normally the clutch bearings, compressor bearings, or possibly an idler pulley??? Hard to "pin-point" exact location of noise. Is this problem common for this age car???

NC211

Tantheman, did you ever figure out what the cause was? I've got a 95 also and it makes a whinning noise too, like a bearing is going out. Did you have any luck?

tantheman

I replaced compressor and clutch. This stopped it. It is the only way. I first used a rebuilt Lexus compressor which was terribly noisy. Then my mechanic suggested a used Lexus compressor from salvage yard with low miles. This worked much better and a lot cheaper. New compressors are around $1000. Low mileage used are 100 - 200 . The rebuilt ones are terrible . I guess by the time they are rebuilt they are completely gone and nothing can "rebuild" the extensive damage. Make sure it is not your idler pulley that is whining. This is cheap to replace (100 parts and labor) and often makes a noise when it's bearings are worn. Might try this first.

NC211

Thanks amigo, I'm thinking it's the a/c unit more so than the polley since it only does it when the a/c is on. When it's off, can't hear anything, and it's ohh soo smooth. Great cars! Got 27 mpg last week on a trip to PA from Raleigh, with the a/c on and going 80 mph. Great cars! Ever had any problems with the bushings on the front control arms and such like many on this forum complain about? Ever had any issues with the engine or transmission mounts? I just got a new tranny mount for $45 grand total and will be putting it in later today after work. The car isn't acting funny except for a slight vibration. Should be a quick 10 minute gig from what I hear. Any other problems you've had with yours? I've only had mine for a few months and it's been a dream, got 88k miles. Did have to have the ecu unit replaced under dealership warranty for a transmission stutter, no biggie on my end since it was free, although I had to fight with the stealership a bit to get them to honor their contract. If you're interested in reading the thread, do a search under my tag, nc211. Thanks tantheman