2004 a/c compressor noise

[ozkmtnbear]

My 2004 Aveo sedan (101,000 miles) has a noise problem with the A/C compressor, at idle and mostly when the engine is cold. When I turn on the A/C, it blows cold like air it should, but the compressor is very noisy, like bearing going out. I replaced alternator and serpentine belt tensioner and recently had Chevrolet replace the timing belt. Whenever I'm running it at highway speeds, I can't hear any noise. It's noisy only at lower speeds like 25mph or less and at idle. Whenever the a/c is off and at idle, I can just barely hear compressor noise.

My question is whether it is possible to change the bearings on the compressor without discharging the system? If I have to have my mechanic discharge the system, I'll go ahead and have a new compressor and dryer put on, but the compressor alone will be in the neighborhood of $400 for new one (not rebuilt). Thanks for any info!

[AVEO_sux]

It's possible to do without discharging the system, but ac clutch costs about the same amount as the compressor does(rockauto.com). With that many miles on it, i would just get it replaced for peace of mind. I work on my own cars to save money and a new compressor on rockauto is only $200 brand new. Maybe you can buy your own parts for them to put on to save some cash. Hope this helps.