During a recent trip, I noticed the A/C stopped blowing cold. I wasn't able to test the high and low side pressures since we were in the middle of nowhere and I had no tools. It was making mechanical noises from what sounded to be near the compressor, so instead of risking further damage, I removed the belt. The car has 106K miles, and I've checked the A/C periodically. Prior to this, the A/C performed fine.

Investigation so far has revealed the following:

- Before I removed the belt, at idle I was hearing mechanical noise from the vicinity of the compressor
- I checked the low side pressure with the car off, and it's showing about 54 PSI, and there was some oil in the spray measured by the gauge, which appears normal
- I am able to turn the pully on the compressor by hand, but it's a little rough, and starts to catch a bit
- The belt is pretty hard, and looks to be a little melted on the side I think was toward the compressor (not stretchy, as it's advertised to be on the belt). The belt appeared to be turning fine and not slipping prior to removing it.

My guess is a bad clutch. Anyone else have similar experience, or suggestions on further diagnosis and/or repair? If it's a clutch, is this something that can be replaced, or will I need a whole new compressor?

Thanks,

Tim