sounds like the pulley bearing is gone might have to change out the compressor. 

> Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2015 17:41:51 -0800
> From: zolo@FOXINTERNET.NET
> Subject: A/C noisy racket
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> 
> My �85 Westy is making a big noise when I switch the A/C on.  I took the cover off to see if I could do anything with it.  The only thing I noticed was that the rotating part is somewhat loose, thus can touch the casing.  Sure, I would like to take it out and fix it if possible, but I can�t see a way of doing it.  I don�t think, I would like to cut the whole thing open.
> 
> Is there anyone who would know what to do with this?
> 
> Zoltan