Hello, It can be the clutch but you need to test the residual pressure in the system as is. The clicking sound indicates the clutch is being switched off and on by the pressure switches. The smoke and smell can be the Freon escaping from a hole in the lines. Or the last gasp of the Freon created ice deposits which melted on the exhaust pipes and is now gone.
A quick explanation of the pressure switches and clicks. You have both a low and high pressure cutoff switch, the ideal pressure is theoretically in the middle of these 2 pressures and kepts the clutch running the longest. With too much Freon the pressure gets too high and the high pressure switch cuts off the clutch; with too little Freon the low pressure switch cuts off the clutch.
You need a tool to test pressure. The low pressure switch is on the freon line close to the black oblong cylinder. If you unplug the wire to this switch and make a U shaped coated jumper wire, you can make the clutch engage by inserting the wire into the connector while the engine is running. Do this for less than a minute if you are not prepared to add Freon, then remove the jumper.
You now know the problem is low pressure if the clutch turns on. Remember to have the dash controls set for the A/C. If the clutch did not engage, check your fuses, then blame your clutch.
Many of the autoparts stores have tool loaner programs. Check with the parts store for the A/C clutch and what tool is needed to change it. There is some room under the hood of a Grand Marquis and it may be possible to replace the clutch without removing the compressor or lines.
If the problem is low pressure and not the clutch, you must find the leak. Get a can of Freon with leak detector, jump the low pressure switch and add the Freon to the oblong tank by the Firewall.
Then repair the problem identified and purge and recharge the system. The autoparts stores loan out the Vacuum dryers.
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