While driving the '88 240 a loud squeal began accompanied by small clouds of smoke from under the hood and the smell of burning rubber. Power steering still worked and the temp was fine but I had the A/C on and suspected the compressor had just quit. I turned the A/C off and the problems all quit. Any attempt to turn A/C on has the problem start all over again.

I suspect the compressor seized up. If this is the case I know I need a new compressor and receiver/dryer. Do I need a new condensor as well? I also suspect that a complete system flush is in order to make sure I remove any internal debris. Any thoughts on that?

Anyone out there had this happen to you?

I plan to use Enviro-Safe refrigerant by Better Technology Trust (http://www.btt.7p.com/AR/FAQ.htm). They say it is 32% more efficient than R-12 and much more efficient than R-134a. Organic, non-toxic, non-ozone depleting hydrocarbon based.

Thanks for any info.