Smoldering/Burning Smell From AC

[nghtshd88]

A few weeks ago I got a very strong random burning rubber smell out of the vents that just also turned to a strong smoldering smell, something like sulfur and a put out candle.. It's not oil on the headers as I just replaced the IMT o-rings and VCG's. The smell is always there no matter what but will sometimes stop briefly and then come back. I figured if it was oil I'd be empty at this rate.

Coincidentally my compressor started acting erratic and not kicking in, or coming on when it wants to. I also saw faint smoke coming out of the driver side headlight area, I believe the ac compressor is located right there.

Is this what the ac clutch smells like when its gone/seizing?

If I for sure need a new one what brand is decent? OR if I find a used one is the Gen II v6/v8 interchangeable?

And no its leaves in the cowl. I see a lot of people always think this but there is screen inside to prevent this and I had the cowl off like 5 times recently and changed the filter.

Thoroughly not enjoying the 100k death clock, something breaks every month now..

 

[jjcool00]

I've seen this happen once... when someone didn't properly charge the A/C.

 

[joegr]

It tends to be what your drive belt smells like when your AC compressor is seized or seizing. If this is the case, then you will need a compressor and most of the AC system replaced or very completely flushed out. Of course, it could be something else. In any event, it's unlikely to be the AC clutch.

 

[nghtshd88]

I've seen this happen once... when someone didn't properly charge the A/C.

I thought there was a switch that prevented it from turning on when its not charged enough.

Are the v6/v8 the same? And it necessary to change the receiver/drier as well? Seem to be around $20, I figure after 10yrs why not.

 

[joegr]

I thought there was a switch that prevented it from turning on when its not charged enough.

Are the v6/v8 the same? And it necessary to change the receiver/drier as well? Seem to be around $20, I figure after 10yrs why not.

Yes, there is a pressure switch (same for V6 and V8) that prevents the compressor from starting if the pressure is too low and stops it if the pressure goes too high. In my opinion, the receiver/dryer should be replaced anytime the system is opened.
The pressure switch does nothing to protect the system if the compressor runs out of oil. Both of my LSes developed leaks at the compressor. In both cases, the oil was leaking out before the refrigerant. Fortunately, both times I saw the oil leak on the garage floor and replaced the compressors before they ran out of oil.

 

[nghtshd88]

Never had a leak or any noise from it. I meant are the compressors the same

 

[joegr]

Never had a leak or any noise from it. I meant are the compressors the same

No, mounting is different I think.