Expert: Roger J.M. Warrington - 4/13/2005

Question
We replaced the water pump in our van last summer, but we are still having a slight problem with the cooling system.  When we drive it for a while and then park it, it boils out in the driveway.  This lowers the reserve and eventually causes it to overheat if we don't put more back in.

We are also having a problem with the Air Conditioner compressor.  It won't come on by itself until we tap on the compressor clutch.  That kicks the clutch into gear and will complete a cycle until it shuts back off again.  Can the clutch itself be replaced without removing hoses or freon?

Answer
HI;
 KALI; OK DOES IT BOIL OVER OR JUST DRIP OFF THE VAPORISED WATER.? ALSO IF YOU HAVE TO HIT THE CLUTCH WITH A HAMMER THERE IS A SERIOUS CONDITION SOME PLACE AS IS THE CLUTCH STICKING AT ALL ? YOU SHOULD GET A CAN OF MOTOR COOLIN SYSTEM FLUSH AND DO AS IT SAYS ON THE CAN AND CLEAN IT OUT GOOD THAN REPLACE ALL FLUIDS IN THE RAD.
CHECK THE BELTS FOR A GOOD TIGHT FIT ALSO. THAN IF IT IS STILL BAD GET NEW BELTS AND GET A A/.C RE-CHARGE ON THE AIR COND. AND SEE IF THATWILL HELP YOU.