I'd say at least once a month, for up to 20 minutes.

----- Original Message -----
From: "Robert Stewart" <robertmstewart@MAC.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Sunday, December 14, 2008 12:27 PM
Subject: Re: AC Belt Removal on an automatic 2.1L, does it improve fuel
economy if removed?

>I don't use the AC only because in the summer it really eats up the
> gas and my fuel economy tanks to like 14-15 mpgs! Normally I can get
> anywhere from 17-20 out of it depending on my driving.
>
> I am planning on doing a major cross country trip this summer from NY
> to CA. So I guess I will keep it connected in case I need it.
>
> How often should the AC be run? every 3 months?  6 months? How long
> does it need to run?
>
> Rob
>
>
> On Dec 13, 2008, at 6:32 PM, Dennis Haynes wrote:
>
>> 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
>>
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