If the AC is functional, then the belt should be installed and you should
make it a habit to regular operate the AC. When it is cool and damp, the AC
does wonders for removing moisture to clear the inside of the windows. Most
all modern cars operate the AC when the defroster is activated. Yes
operating the heat and AC at the same time.

With the AC off, unless the AC clutch is binding or the bearing is shot, the
loss is immeasurable. With the AC on the loss is considerable especially if
the engine needs to go to higher RPMS. If you want the AC to work, then let
it work.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Robert Stewart
Sent: Saturday, December 13, 2008 5:28 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: AC Belt Removal on an automatic 2.1L, does it improve fuel economy
if removed?

Hello everyone,

Happy holidays to all.

I am in the process of having my 2.1 Automatic engine rebuilt by a
local rebuilder. In talking with the mechanic who removed the engine
for me he asked me if use the AC to which I replied and said "no"...
So he said I should remove the belt as it take some stress off the
engine, possibly providing a little more horsepower.

What's the consensus on those who don't you there AC but leave the
belt on vs removing the belt?

Is there any reason not to leave it on?

Will you get any better performance if you remove it?

Will it hurt the compressor if it's not connected?

Is there any truth to it benefiting performance?

Thanks to all your answers in advance.

Robert
Bloomingburg NY
240,000 Miles 88 Automatic Wolfsburg

------------------------------------------------------------
+    To unsubscribe from the Vanagon List send an e-mail to
+    listserv@gerry.vanagon.com with SIGNOFF VANAGON
+    in the body of the message.
------------------------------------------------------------

------------------------------------------------------------
+    To unsubscribe from the Vanagon List send an e-mail to
+    listserv@gerry.vanagon.com with SIGNOFF VANAGON
+    in the body of the message.
------------------------------------------------------------