if the AC compressor is seized can the belt smoke when it is turned on?

ANSWER : Hi and thanks for contacting YourMechanic. If a serpentine belt goes around an a/c compressor clutch pulley and the compressor is locked up, it is okay to have the belt as long as the a/c compressor clutch is not activated. If you saw smoke coming from the belt, then either the a/c compressor clutch was engaged or the clutch was seized to the compressor shaft. Within doubt, if you need to operate your vehicle without the a/c, you can purchase a serpentine belt that is shorter in design to bypass the a/c compressor. Keep in mind that when you want to use the defogger for your windshield, it works only with the a/c working. I recommend fixing the a/c compressor issue so the vehicle is working in normal conditions. If you need assistance with your serpentine belt, then seek out a professional, preferably a professional from YourMechanic to help you.

ANSWER : Hello. The smaller belt is known as your timing belt, and it works inside the engine to keep mechanical components aligned with each other during the compression cycle. The serpentine belt, which is the big belt, drives the alternator, water pump, AC compressor, and a couple of other components. If the small belt broke it is likely the timing belt. This will cause the car to stall, lights to illuminate, and can even cause serious damage to the engine. Typically replacing a timing belt is a lot more complicated and expensive than replacing a serpentine belt. You may want to receive a second opinion on the car before you go ahead with repairs.

ANSWER : Hello, thank you for writing in. Although the pulley is still spinning, the compressor has likely failed. If it is not properly regulating pressure in the system, one of the first signs is a warm air conditioner. Considering yours is not cooling off, the pressures are not correct. If you believe the compressor is working correctly, you may want to check for a clogged line before replacing it. Keep in mind, a blocked line has likely put extra strain on the compressor, and may cause premature failure. For more help with testing or replacing the compressor, contact our service department to schedule an appointment.

ANSWER : The control circuit for the fans needs to be checked. For example, there is usually a condenser fan relay in the A/C electrical controls. There could be a fault with that relay and/or wiring problems, perhaps even just a loose connection, blown or loose fuse, and so forth. To resolve something like this, the recommended service is an electrical component diagnostic. If you request that diagnostic service, the responding certified mechanic will get the problem pinpointed and resolved. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : Hi there. Unfortunately, we’re not able to provide you with a diagram or instructions on how to complete this project, as it’s not recommended as an OEM repair. If your vehicle has the AC compressor, it has a serpentine belt configuration and a belt that is specifically for this type of conf. I think your best bet is to search for a diagram online or purchase a service and repair manual for your Ford Taurus.

ANSWER : The compressor clutch relay on these vehicles are a known cause of sticking on the compressor clutch and overheating the A/C compressor clutch coil. Replace the A/C relay to see if it cures the clutch going bad the next time you do a compressor clutch replacement, or replace it now if you have just replaced the clutch.

ANSWER : Hi there. The pulley on the air conditioning compressor or another pulley could be the cause for the belt failing. Some vehicles have the accessories in locations where a shorter belt can be applied and the air conditioning compressor can be bypassed. Your vehicle does have a model that came without air conditioning and an experienced technician can install the shorter belt recommended for your vehicle. The air conditioning compressor will simply be bypassed and out of operation until the compressor is fixed properly and the correct belt is installed. Have an experienced technician, like one from YourMechanic, inspect the AC system for faults and recommend the appropriate repairs for your specific situation.

ANSWER : Hi there. It sounds like you may have one or two concerns here. Does the AC indicator light up when you turn it on? If so, this means that the command for AC is active. If the light flashes, this means the module is telling us that the compressor is not turning. If the light does not turn on, there may be no signal to the clutch. The system does not hold much oil and you may not have seen much come out of the compressor. Inspect any oil that has come out for metal specks or a greyish color; this would indicate compressor failure and now there is metal throughout the system. I strongly suggest having a qualified technician inspect the system, both mechanically and electrically to determine the root cause/causes of your concern. Your Mechanic has several technicians available that can assist you with an ac system inspection and provide an estimate and direction of repair.