Removing belts on my 1977 Chevy Scottsdale - AC Compressor

[1977_LEROY]

I bought this 1977 Chevy Scottsdale without a AC Compressor belt installed. The mechanic (seller) told me he isn't sure if the compressor works at all or not. He thinks the compressor bearing may be worn out... the compressor belt wheel on the clutch assembly spins freely (not sure if it is suppose to do that or not). I figure the first step is to get a replacement belt on the AC compressor and see if the compressor engages. The issue is that I have to remove all the other belts on the engine to get to get this belt on. What is the easiest way to do this or does someone have a good reference site or youtube video to get me started. It doesn't look like their is any type of tensioner pulley on this system. It is the 5.7L V8, 350. Any help is greatly appreciated ladies and gents.

Also, note, factory AC - R12 system installed. I am not sure what i need to do to get this system retrofitted for R134A coolant.

Thanks again,

[Katrina/10]

The belt pulley on the compressor should spin freely with no belt. The magnetic clutch portion on the front of the pulley should turn by hand with some effort. If it doesn't, the compressor is siezed and needs to be replaced.

[1977_LEROY]

Thanks Gary for reply. The compressor does everything you said in your post. I think we are sitting "OK" right now. I just need to get the new belt on the compressor and charge the system and pray for no leaks.

[Malo83]

Now would be the time to change all the old belts with new ones, this is what I did on my 83, AC belt let go and the other belts were getting old, just a little peace of mind

[Katrina/10]

Yes, you do have to remove all the other belts. They each have a slotted hole with a bolt in it you must loosen to give the belt enough slack to be removed. You may also want to test the clutch on the compressor before you put a belt on it. Jumper 12v to it and it should make a loud click.

[lilpoindexter]

What Katrina / 10 said.

[1977_LEROY]

Removed the two belts in the way today and put the new belts on... I found out why they didn't have a belt on the compressor. It was missing a mount bolt in the back. I need to find another one and I am having no luck at Autozone. I guess I need to hit up a junkyard and look through some scrounge. Frustrating...

Side note: Compressor works but need to either find some R-12 or decide if I want to tackle retrofitting system and running R134A. The fittings on the high and low pressure sides look newer and I wonder if someone already did the conversion on the system. I will take some pics later and post and see if the collective knowledge on here can tell.

Thanks again for all the support and responses.