mhorn

My 1990 300E just started making a squeling type nosie that seems to be coming from the A/C compressor. It sounds like the bearing might be going bad. Doesn't do it all the time, but enough to be annoying. I see what looks like an oil supply pipe going from the compressor into the engine block. It doens't appear to be leaking. The belts are nice and tight and show no signs of wear. I can't really tell if the A/c is working or not since it's winter time now, but it feels like it's blowing out cold(er) air than the ambient temp. I've noticed that the little electric clutch comes on for a couple of seconds right after I start the car, but then I can't seem to get it to engage the compressor even if i turn on the defrost. Could this have anything to do with it? Is it possible to replace the bearings on the compressor or must you buy a whole unit? Thanks, Matt.