How To Bypass AC Compressor with Serpentine Belt

But what happens when your AC compressor malfunctions or locked-up? A costly repair bill can put a damper on your plans, leaving you in a sticky situation. So how to bypass AC compressor with serpentine belt?

Bypassing the AC compressor with a serpentine belt is easier than you think. The only expensive thing you have to do to complete the task is buy a new serpentine belt in the correct size.

I researched deeply to find a way to bypass the AC compressor with a serpentine belt. After trying different methods, I was able to find a simple and successful way to bypass the AC compressor with serpentine belt. In this article, I will explain how I bypassed the AC compressor with a serpentine belt as a step-by-step guide.

The Functionality of the AC Compressor

The AC compressor is a crucial component in a vehicle’s air conditioning system.

Functionality of the AC Compressor	Description
1. Refrigerant Circulation	Compresses and circulates the refrigerant. In this step, low-pressure gas is transformed into a high-pressure and high-temperature gas.
2. Cooling and Condensing	Releases heat and cools the refrigerant.
3. Heat Exchange	Allows the high-pressure liquid refrigerant to dissipate heat into the surrounding air in the condenser.
4. Expansion Valve	Controls the flow and reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. The Expansion valve lets refrigerant evaporate and turn into a low-pressure, low-temperature gas.
5. Evaporator and Cooling Effect	Absorbs heat from the surrounding air.
6. Compressor Clutch	Engages and disengages the compressor pulley from the engine’s crankshaft. This allows the compressor to operate selectively. So, the compressor does not put unnecessary strain on the engine.

Why Bypassing AC Compressor Is a Good Idea?

We can’t run with a problematic AC compressor. Why? It puts extra strain on the engine and the mileage of the car drops significantly. The cost of the gas was nearly doubled in my car. Then what can we do? We can replace the AC compressor. AC compressor replacement costs above 1000$. It is also expensive.

Then the idea that comes to our mind is bypassing the AC compressor.

What Are the Uses of Bypassing AC Compressor with Serpentine Belt?

There are some benefits of bypassing AC compressor with serpentine belt.

Cost Saving

Bypassing eliminates the requirement for costly AC compressor replacement. This saves you a large sum of money.

Simplified Maintenance

The AC compressor is a component that needs regular maintenance. By bypassing it, you can simplify vehicle maintenance and prevent AC-related issues.

Improved Fuel Efficiency

The AC compressor places an additional load on the engine. This leads to a decrease in the mileage of the car. Bypassing reduces the load and increases fuel efficiency.

Extended Engine Lifespan

If you are driving with AC on a hilly road, it puts a high amount of stress on the engine. Bypassing the AC compressor with a serpentine belt reduces that and increases the lifespan of the engine.

How To Bypass AC Compressor with Serpentine Belt

Then, how to bypass AC compressor with serpentine belt? Now I will explain how I bypassed the AC compressor with a serpentine belt as a step-by-step guide.

Tools Needed

Here are the tools needed for bypassing the AC compressor:

1. Pen and paper
2. A new serpentine belt (complete the first steps before buying one)
3. Flexible measuring tape
4. Spanner or wrench

Step 1: Remember the Route of the Serpentine Belt

First, I drew a rough diagram of the serpentine belt and connected the pulley on a piece of paper.

Step 2: Locate the AC Compressor

Then I identified the AC compressor and pulley of it.

Step 3: Determine the New Path for the Belt

Next, I determined the new path for the serpentine belt to follow after escaping the pulley of the AC compressor.

Step 4: Measure the Length for the New Belt

I measured the approximate length of the new belt using a flexible measuring tape. Then I bought a new serpentine belt for that size.

Step 5: Remove the Old Serpentine Belt

I located the tensioner pulley and loosened it using a wrench. Then I was able to remove the old serpentine belt easily.

Step 6: Install the New Belt

Next, I installed the new serpentine belt, following the modified path. I ensured the belt was correctly placed according to the diagram I had drawn, and it excluded the pulley of the AC compressor.

Step 7: Tight the Tensioner Pulley

Finally, I tighten the tensioner pulley to provide the correct amount of tension to the belt to prevent slippage while allowing for proper operation.

I started the engine, observed the operation of the components, and drove the car for a check drive. Everything was fine. The engine worked perfectly without the AC compressor.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs):

Is it safe to bypass the AC compressor with a serpentine belt?

Bypassing the AC compressor with a serpentine belt can be a safe option if done correctly and in the appropriate circumstances. However, it’s important to note that bypassing the AC compressor will result in the loss of cold air.

Can I still use the AC controls and adjust the temperature after bypassing the compressor?

Yes, you can still use the AC controls to adjust the temperature after bypassing the compressor. Bypassing primarily affects the cooling functionality of the system. The other controls, such as heater temperature, fan speed, and air distribution, remained operational.

Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow when bypassing the AC compressor?

Yes, it is essential to take the necessary precautions when bypassing the AC compressor with serpentine belt. Here are them:

1. Ensure that the AC compressor is indeed the cause of the problem.
2. Obtain the appropriate serpentine belt size. The serpentine belt thickness should be the same as the old belt. Only the length is reduced.
3. Safety first. Before starting the task, disconnect the battery.
4. Wear gloves and eye protectors for additional safety.
5. Follow the belt routing diagram correctly.
6. After putting in a new belt, ensure it is tightened properly to prevent slippage.
7. When you drive with a new belt, monitor the engine temperature in the first few days after bypass.

Can I bypass the AC compressor temporarily and then reconnect it later?

Yes, you can bypass the AC compressor temporarily using the serpentine belt method. When you need to reconnect the AC compressor, only you have to do it, but the old serpentine belt connects all components, including the AC compressor. If you have hope to reconnect, do it soon. If the AC compressor remained stationary for a few years, it could be seized.

Conclusion

Now you know everything about how to bypass AC compressor with serpentine belt. It is a relatively simple process that you can do yourself.