Escort - Noisy Aircon

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Mon 31 Mar 2003 21:33
Escort - Noisy Aircon - Wales Forester
Hi all,
My 1997 Escort Ghia X 1.8 has developed a noise and vibration when the air con is used. It is a very dull, low pitched noise, almost like a fan, accompanied by a vibration which can be felt thru the floor/steering etc.
Any ideas??

PP
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Mon 31 Mar 2003 22:11
Escort - Noisy Aircon - Dave N
Some escorts had a problem with the cooling fan shroud distorting and touching the fan blades as they turn. It is more noticable when the a/c is on as the fan only turns at half speed. Spin the fan by hand to see if it rubs, and you may be able to reposition the shroud slightly to stop it. If not, you'll need a whole new fan assembly. Also, if you leave it as is, you'll burn out the resistor that the fan power runs through to give it half speed (I think they're about £40).
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Tue 1 Apr 2003 19:48
Escort - Noisy Aircon - Wales Forester
Thanks for advice Dave N.
Checked the fan, it seems ok, no noise or rubbing, where does that leave me? Could the main air con pump/unit/thingy give out such a noise and vibration?

PP
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Tue 1 Apr 2003 21:12
Escort - Noisy Aircon - Dave N
The next thing to check is the compressor itself. With the engine OFF, see if you can turn the centre of the compressor hub by hand. It should turn reasonably easily with no lumps or grinding. Then run the a/c and have a good listen underneath around the compressor. It could just be something else on the belt train making a noise when it is loaded by the a/c.

Ford compressor aren't exactly immune from self destructing, and the results can be nasty, as ford use teflon coated pistons that melt sending black goo around the system. If that happens, you're in for a big bill. So if you suspect the compressor, get it looked at sharpish.
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Fri 4 Apr 2003 19:38
Escort - Noisy Aircon - Wales Forester
Thanks again Dave.
The car is in for a service and cambelt change on Tuesday so i'm gonna let the main agent have a look and give me their opinion.
Fingers crossed it's nothing too serious.

PP
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