INTRODUCTION
If like me your AC compressor stop working because
you busted your springs, you will be glad to know
that you don’t have to replace the compressor like
the dealer pretends. A compressor replacement will
cost about 1000$. However you can replace the broken
springs for about 60$ without removing the
compressor from the car and thus save the costly
R134 refill.
Here’s what a broken spring looks like:
MODELS
This model of compressor (Valeo DKV-10R /
73111FG001) was installed on the following models :
- Subaru Impreza 2008-2009-2010
- Subaru Forester 2008-2009-2010
STORY
One day I heard a weird sound when turning off the
AC. So I lift the hood and noticed that the drive
plate was off center and loose between the pulley
and the flange. Then I realized that the 3 springs
were broken. To prevent the drive plate from being
damaged by the spinning pulley, I remove the screw,
flange and drive plate. That's a 5 minute job. I
figured it would be easy to buy a new drive plate
assembly to repair my compressor. I was quite
disappointed when the dealer told me that I had to
buy the whole compressor at 900$ since they don't
sell spare parts to repair the clutch. I couldn't
accept that I would have to change the compressor
because of little broken springs. I looked for the
part on Internet but I could only find forums and
YouTube video of other people having the same
problem. So I decided to make my own springs to
repair my compressor. I measured everything and
designed it. I took the liberty of making it in a
single piece instead of 3 pieces like the original.
I figured it would be easier to install and since
I'm re-doing it from scratch, I might as well
improve it!
OEM
springs
Custom replacement spring
CAD
I got my custom spring manufactured and bought some
rivets to install it. I re-installed everything on
the car and was more than happy to see that my AC
was working fine again! Then I thought I should
share this to help other people repair their
compressor at low cost.
2015 NEW VERSION
I designed a new version to simplify manufacturing and improve the lifetime of the srping. Follow the same installation instructions and make sure to install the spring in the correct orientation:
Visit us on facebook to share you feedback,
experience and pictures with other Subaru Owners.
Visitors