Quick A/C question

[Skeg]

So I finally got my a/c working except it occationally makes a very loud squealing noise from the compressor.

I hasn't been used for a year and I have a feeling the new oil will eventually work its way into the compressor and smooth out the squealing... my question is, is the compressor eventually fail or is there a chance it will work itself out.

[russiankid]

Did you check the belt tension?

[Skeg]

i did not, i assumed it was the compressor because the belt has never squeaked before... how do i check the belt tension?

[russiankid]

Check to see how much deflection the belt has by pushing on it between the crank pulley and compressor. If its really tight, then it shouldn't squeak. If its loose, it will squeak.

[Skeg]

there is only about a 1/4 inch of play... although there is some glazing on the side of the belt, that indicates some looseness right?

[russiankid]

Belts will get shinny after a long time because they do rub on metal. How much pressure are you applying on the belt?

[Skeg]

It actually might be closer to 1/2 inch... I push on it in the middle until it stops deflecting, probably 10-15 pounds i guess?

and by glazing I mean like white scratches into the side of the belt

[russiankid]

Half an inch is to much.