My serp shredded in a blizzard this past winter. After its replacment, I thought all was well 'til today when I took it to the shop for a warm A/C and to have my new VOV installed.

Turns out that the serp slashed in half the wire from the A/C compressor to the clutch. Because the space is too cramped (3/4" max) to splice onto the remaining 1/8" wire stub, at the very least, I'll have to pay to have both compressor and clutch pulled to attempt a splice.

My mechanic is hesitant to even try a splice due probable failure from vibration in that location. If that doesn't work, either the clutch or the compressor (or BOTH) might have to get replaced because not only is that wire is not a separate part but we don't even know if either works.

The labor to pull the compressor/clutch is at least four, maybe five hours. Could possibly cost me $800+ - Just for parts.

My paranoia has returned with a vengence.

Any thoughts about alternatives??
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Natalie, 1993 960 Wagon, 'Fang' - Paranoia is Standard Equipment on Every Volvo 960

If he has the puller for the clutch, I think there should be plenty of room around the front of the compressor to work from underneath the car. With the clutch off, the coil should be acessable so that it can be taken off and checked to see if there is enough lead left to solder a jumper on.

Unfortunately, since the end of the wire has been exposed for a while it may not solder very easily because of the oxides. If he doesn't feel comfortable soldering it, take the coil to one of the electrical repair places that work on starters & alternators for their expertise. (They might be able to put a whole new wire on the coil.) A new coil should be available but may need to be special ordered.
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'96 965 with 16' wheels at 102K. Had '85 745 Turbo Diesel for 200K.

Thanks, Jim -

He had a big problem with using a jumper because of the probability of a mediocre solder. Getting a whole new wire put on the coil? That sounds like a plan. I'll ask him about that.

The compressor is not the original but was replaced under warranty by the previous owner, FWIW. And the blower is starting to make a big racket, now...
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Natalie, 1993 960 Wagon, 'Fang' - Paranoia is Standard Equipment on Every Volvo 960

Hm...

I think Warren has the solution. The comp clutch can come off and that should give better access to the wire (or enable the wire to be replaced). that does sound kind of tight. I'm wondering if it's really necessary to replace the whole compressor.
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Chris Herbst, near Chicago.

Thanks, Chris - I like hearing *your* concurrance. I guess what I meant to say was that since it isn't getting any electricity to test it insitu, the compressor could get replaced - but only if it turns out to be DOA... It is really tight - couldn't even get in there myself with my tiny little fingers!
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Natalie, 1993 960 Wagon, 'Fang' - Paranoia is Standard Equipment on Every Volvo 960

He could always remove the compressor clutch, fix it and then replace the whole assembly. You might also have him replace the compressor clutch assembly.
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Warren Bain - '99 V70GLT G-Valve > 70K mi, '96 965 >110Kmi Wifemobile near Manassas Va.. Check the 700/900 FAQ via the 'features' pull down menu.

Thanks, Warren - I'll have to ask him about that...
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Natalie, 1993 960 Wagon, 'Fang' - Paranoia is Standard Equipment on Every Volvo 960