Loud Whining from Engine Bay When AC is Turned On (1 Viewer)

[Guuber]

Recently a loud whining/grinding noise started while driving my 2001 Land Cruiser. I noticed that it got louder with RPM, but could not be heard of the AC compressor was turned off. AC still runs cold, so not sure what it can be. Hoping someone might have had a similar situation and I'm not going to have to replace the AC compressor/clutch. Attached below is a video showing up the sound.

 

[Exiled]

Sounds exactly like the bearings on the air compressor. I vaguely recall a thread where someone took their air compressor off and pressed new bearings in?

 

[Guuber]

Sounds exactly like the bearings on the air compressor. I vaguely recall a thread where someone took their air compressor off and pressed new bearings in?

I've been told if it's the bearings on the air compressor itself, I am supposed to replace the AC compressor entirely. It's only very audible when the AC clutch is engaged. Any possibility it could be the belt tensioners?

 

[Exiled]

The belt tensioners would likely be making noise all the time and not just with the compressor engaged. At least that's been the case on my one 100 and my wife's 200.

 

[Guuber]

The belt tensioners would likely be making noise all the time and not just with the compressor engaged. At least that's been the case on my one 100 and my wife's 200.

Hm, that does make sense. Let me take the belt off this weekend and hand turn some stuff and I'll see if I can isolate it. I greatly appreciate the help

 

[Otis]

I have a similar noise and found this thread yesterday that has some good info:

Air-con compressor magnetic clutch change​