The rubber within my clutch cracked, then eventually started slipping and melting, so I am now replacing it. The ac has otherwise been working well, and the compressor still turns okay.

My question is whether I'll have to remove the compressor to get at the clutch and if so, can I do it without opening any of the lines?

 

I'm not too sure of what is going on. The clutch is pretty simple to replace. You will likely have to remove the compressor bolts and turn it to access the clutch, pulley, coil...

Try to loosen the 10mm bolt on the clutch while the compressor is still bolted onto the car.

 

i have a 95 coupe that i am working on...it is wayyyy easier to access all of the compressor parts by first removing alternator then the ac compressor...after the compressor is out... i used a rubber strap to hold the "wheel portion" still so i could remove the 10mm bolt.