AC issue

2006 BMW 525XI
151,000 MILES • 3.0L • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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ABOOM292
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  • 2 POSTS
Makes dry spinning noise at front of engine when AC is off. Turned AC on and it stops but is not blowing cold air.
Oct 1, 2018 at 7:18 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.com.

If the noise is from the front, it sounds like the compressor clutch is loose or bad. Open the hood and locate the AC compressor. Have a helper start the vehicle with the AC off. Next, have the helper turn the AC on and see if the compressor clutch engages and begins to turn the compressor. The pulley on the compressor is free wheeling until the system is turned on. At that point, an electrical clutch engages and the inner workings of the compressor turn.

I attached a picture of the compressor to help you locate it. You may have to remove the serpentine belt to inspect the unit for looseness. Picture 2 is the belt routing diagram for the serpentine belt. Here are the directions for removal and replacement.

_______________________________________

Important!
Aluminium-magnesium materials.

No steel screws/bolts may be used due to the threat of electrochemical corrosion.

A magnesium crankcase requires aluminium screws/bolts exclusively.

Aluminium screws/bolts must be replaced each time they are released.

Aluminium screws/bolts are permitted with and without

color coding (blue).

For reliable identification:

Aluminium screws/bolts are not magnetic.

Jointing torque and angle of rotation must be observed without fail (risk of damage).

Necessary preliminary tasks:
- Remove fan cowl See: Radiator Cooling Fan > Removal and Replacement > Removing and Installing/Replacing Fan Cowl With Electric Fan (N52).
Turn belt tension-er (4) in direction of arrow until bore (2) is flush on housing.

Hold belt tension-er (4) under tension.
Secure belt tension-er with special tool 11 3 340 See: Engine > Electrical / Mechanical Repair > 11 3 340 Locking Pin (2 Pieces).

Note:
Illustration N42.

Remove drive belt (1) towards top.
Assemble engine.

Installation Note:
Check that drive belt for is in correct installation position - risk of damage.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
Oct 1, 2018 at 7:11 PM
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ABOOM292
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thank you! I will take look ASAP.
Oct 1, 2018 at 10:04 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Glad to help. Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
Oct 2, 2018 at 5:13 PM