Mahindra 2538 HST CAB - A/C issue

[danster44]

Bought my 2538 HST CAB new in Dec. 2016 - on our weekend ranch (garaged) so gets very little use, so only have 110 hours I noted the other day.
While changing the battery last Dec (2023) l noticed the A/C belt was shredded/gone, which explains why the A/C was not working.
Since its not an easy belt to replace, had a mobile mechanic come and replace, change oil, etc.

The other day while mowing A/C was working fine, but eventually when slowing down after turning mower off had a nasty belt squeal, and eventually squeal went away and no A/C.
How can a belt get torn up within 3-4 hours of changing? I am assuming its the belt - I did not check before I left for home, but need all the A/C advice I can get for this tractor:
we're in Texas so the A/C is a MUST. Please advise.

 

[LittleBill21]

prolly got a pulley going or out of alignment.

 

[R134a]

The compressor is likely seized.

 

[Tinhack]

++^^ Above. Could have a plugged or bad expansion valve too. Or moisture in the system--Turns to ice. That valve is typically at or near the cabin evaporator (Overhead in most tractors). This valve controls the "coolness" and the compressor clutch. A clogged or bad valve can also cause a compressor lock.

One way to tell if the cause is ice blocking the expansion valve would be to let the tractor sit for a few hours. Restart it and the AC and see if you're getting cold air then. If the AC works, you probably have moisture and air in the system.

 

[danster44]

Thank you all for the ideas, recommendations: next time at the ranch I will open up hood and see if belt is gone (I assumed it was, because the squeal stopped, and the A/C was warm)
Great ideas for whats happening and ball's in my court!

 

[Engineer42]

Check the idler pulley. It's plastic on mine. Bearing gets warm, distorts the inside circle of the pulley. I replaced mine with a metal one.

 

[danster44]

Will check that - thank you!