I need to replace the compressor. How difficult is this

This depends on your knowledge on car parts and mechanics. It is extremely difficult to do yourself and without proper knowledge can be quite dangerous. I will attach a link for a how-to guide which should be helpful in replacing the compressor yourself. Good luck!

http://www.autoacsystems.com/_faqs/detail/compressor.html

Replacement clutches are available and you can have the clutch replaced. However, there may be a problem with the compressor bearings and the entire unit/system needs to be checked as well.

Yes! very difficult unless you're a refrigeration specialist. What are your specific symptoms for needing the compressor replaced??

You can replace all the parts mentioned

Just make sure you have a pro fill it and evacuate all the air out.

Don't use those cans you can buy at a chain store it needs to be done right.

shocks are not too difficult...but struts are a different matter you may need a spring compressor...I would suggest you check out replacing them at a good front end shop it will save you a lot of disapointment in the end

No.compressor has to be replaced make sure to replace all related o-rings and fill the new compressor with the specified amount of oil.

It all depend on your mechanical know how. The difficulty of the swap is based off the location of the compressor. If its on the front side of the engine is might be a very easy swap. If its on the backside of the motor it will be a very daunting task. But remember when swapping out compressors make sure you replace all seals with new even if the orriginal ones still look ok. Good luck.

a 3 in one start relay usually runs about $75 and it is not that difficult to replace if you are sure that this is the problem there is also the chance that the compressor could be damaged. you do not want to replace just the relay as there is also an overload circuit the 3 in 1 starters have everything in it and good instructions as far as which wire goes where you have 2 wires for 120 volt in and then three connection on the compressor

You'll need a vacuum pump, an oxy-acetylene torch some silphos silver solder. Regular plumbers solder won't work. You might try replacing the start capacitor and maybe use a kicker capacitor on the compressor before you buy a new compressor. You may find it difficult to buy freon if you're not licensed to buy it. To recharge the system, you'll need a set of gauges and hoses and a scale to weigh the freon when you add it to the system. Still want to do it yourself?

System refrigerant must be recovered prior to any work done on replacing any part of the sealed system, Recovery unit required at about $750.00. After recovery the compressor lines must be disconnected by heating to a temperature above 1385°F, Torch required , cost about $350. The compressor electrical wires must be disconnected. The motor mounts must be disconnected by removing clips or bolts. The compressor can then be removed. The new compressor can now be installed and the mounts connected. The piping can be cleaned fluxed and re-soldered using a high temperature alloy such as #45 silver solder. #15 if the stub tubes of the compressor are copper. A new system filter/dryer must be installed. Electrical wires must be connected to the new compressor. A deep vacuum must be pulled on the system to remove and air , moisture and non-condensible gases for the internal system. Then you can charge the system by weight to the exact amount shown on the system name plate and the proper tyep of refrigerant.

So the answer is yes it is difficult and requires a good technician to be done properly.

If the unit is out of warranty it is not recommended that the compressor be replaced at you expense.