I have a 1995 850 Turbo Wagon with 230K miles. The bearings are shot in my AC compressor. My AC has not worked for many years as I was told that I had multiple leaks in my system and that it would be $1400 to fix at the time. I don't want to buy a new / used compressor to simply act as a belt tensioner, which would be about $500 per my mechanic.

Are there any aftermarket alternatives for carrying the belt at the location of the AC compressor? Any other clever ideas? I know that in some cars a shortened belt can be used but I don't know if that if possible in this car.

Thanks

 

I have heard of people doing that. You still may have to remove the compressor to get it out of the way. You could get a compressor from a junk yard and install it yourself.

The leak that usually cost $1,400 to fix it the evaporator. I have replaced one of those but it's a lot of work and not worth it unless the system needs to be serviced more than monthly.

 

The AC compressor may be shot but the belt runs on the pulley and the pulley runs on a separate bearing external of the compressor. That bearing can be replaced separately to allow the belt to spin even if the compressor is damaged and or totally out of freon. If you have the room, it can be done without removing the compressor from the vehicle.

I've done these on a lot of cars but I haven't done one on my 850 yet. Most of the ones I've done the bearing is held in with a "C" clip but some are pressed in.

Youtube:
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j...lIoggA&cad=rja

 

There is no need to remove the compressor to put on the bypass belt.
What you need is a 6 rib 49.5" belt.. Alot of companies make them the mostly fit fords.
Here are some part numbers
OEM: 6k495 | Belt | AutoZone.com
NAPA AUTO PARTS
ACDelco 6K495 - BELT,FAN | O'Reilly Auto Parts
You can also just go to you local auto parts store and ask for a "6K495" Belt.

The routing is fairly simple.