v belt to serp belt AC pulley?

[metalneverdies]

I am in the middle of a 5.3 swap on my truck. I was just curious if you guys knew if it was possible / worth it to swap out my v belt pulley on my stock R4 tuna can compressor?

Should I just buy the serp belt compressor and not worry about swapping pulleys, or just say screw it and use the 2001 compressor and splurge on the insanely expensive mounts for it?

 

[K85 Octane]

I'm not really helpful with this, but I just used the serpentine accessories when I changed out my V-belts. The truck an early 90s V6 1500 and had the R4 donut compressor.

How about just getting a new compressor with clutch/pulley? Probably fairly cheap, though I don't know.

 

[metalneverdies]

I'm not really helpful with this, but I just used the serpentine accessories when I changed out my V-belts. The truck an early 90s V6 1500 and had the R4 donut compressor.

How about just getting a new compressor with clutch/pulley? Probably fairly cheap, though I don't know.

I am probably going to have to do that. I just figured if I could swap the pulley that would be cheap / cool. I know my compressor works vs. Buying a used one.

 

[paratrooper307]

I would think you should be able to swap pulleys with a puller, it's pretty common for the same component to be used with both belt setups. I've installed many an alternator that came with one type of pulley and required a swap to another for a particular application. Technically you are supposed to get a special A/C pulley puller to avoid damage, but if you're sensible you can do it with a a standard one. They are available everywhere, or you may be able to borrow one from the parts store.

The old R4 compressor is power-robbing and inefficient compared to new designs. I'd consider upgrading to the newer compressor, especially if you plan on using the A/C a lot. I'm assuming the mount you're talking about is the one for vans that mounts the A/C compressor up top? They're pretty pricey as you say, but you might get lucky and find one on a wrecked vehicle.

I don't know if this is an issue with this motor, but check alignment with the compressor. Serpentine setups are more sensitive to alignment than v-belts

 

[Blue85]

Is it possible to swap the engine without removing the condensor? That would make the pulley swap very attractive if you never had to discharge the A/C.

 

[metalneverdies]

Yes. Very possible. I only removed my hood, one inner fender and the radiator to do my 5.3 swap.