Halfway across Texas in 97 degree heat we lost the A/C. Started working hard and not cooling well. Over about an hour got worse. Stopped to get gas and could hear a clicking coming from the compressor while the compressor was engaged. The compressor stayed engaged the whole time as the system could never keep up.
About 20 miles after the fuel stop the air was borderline warm and then a few minutes later there was a small pop and about 10 seconds of hissing followed by refrigerant smell. The hissing was definitely coming from the engine bay and not the PS footwell.
After getting the family to the hotel sans the A/C for another 100 or so miles I inspected things and the PS front fenderwell is covered in fluid. All of the PS suspension components was coated in fluid. Some fluid was present further back on the torsion bar, a little on the side of the frame just forward of the A-arms, etc. The whole of wheel-well liner was coated probably due to spray getting to the tire and then transferring.
No noticeable breaks in the A/C lines, Drier, but there was fluid on the very bottom of the compressor at what looks like a seal just aft of the clutch assembly. Appearing as though a gasket on the compressor let go.
I know nothing about HVAC and am attempting to describe the best I can. Not even sure there is a gasket or place that can "give" on the compressor. Just what it appears.
We are trying to get out of here by noon so we can get to K-rocks with the rest of the group, but we need A/C.
