I suppose it is a good omen that I can't find much regarding the A/C compressor. It has also crossed my mine that those - even diy's - simply take their XF's to an A/C shop.

Not a good test, but I just started and ran the XF with the A/C on after re-sealing the two small cam covers yesterday. Resealing as in cleaning Everything, before adding black RTV sealant.

I ran it for only a couple of minutes and - at least for now - there are no leaks from the covers, nor any oil on the floor. However, I did remove the lower plastic cover and cleaned off the oil from the compressor.

But going on the basis that it is the front seal on the compressor, I want to at least buy the parts needed. I don't trust shops to not mark up parts even on top of their shop discounts. As of now, I don't see how you can even access the compressor and I took a good look at it from underneath. I could only see one torx screw and it wasn't very accessible. And I'm sure that there are other fasteners holding it on.

I just read through the removing of the serpentine belt since it at least needs to be loosened when replacing the compressor.

Since my '07 is coming up on 52K miles, it only makes sense to replace the belt at the same time. I gather it is also best to replace the idler pulley.

What brand of belt is the best? I'm less interest in the cheapest, just the most reliable one.

A/C compressor: There are lots of compressors available for the XF, along with various part numbers. Also the prices range from $600+ to $195.

What brand and model (number) is the closest - if not the exact - compressor for the '07 XF?

I'd really like to remove/install everything and just have it recharged. So far I've not even located the 'In/Out' fittings. That is one buried compressor. I gather pulling the fan might give me a bit more room with which to work.

 

I've ruled out (for now) the steering pump. I did a hail mary and attached some paper toweling to a bent wire, dipped it in lacquer thinner, and ran it underneath the pump. It came back looking 'sooty' but no sign of fresh oil on it.

However, if anyone has replaced their steering pump, please point me to the thread, or just let me know where you sourced your pump and is it holding up okay without leaking? Prices seem to be from roughly $350 to $650. The latter being OEM.

Biba