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My daughter has a 2001 civic lx. The ac compressor is making a grinding noise that seems to go away when I turn on the ac. She needs to return to college today (100 miles) I will replace the compressor but can't do it in time for her to go to school. She will return in two weeks. Question:If the condition worsens before she returns will she just loose ac function or will the belt pulley cause problems with the alternator?/should she leave ac on?/should I give her Mom's car for 2 weeks?

 
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chances are the grinding noise is the compressor is going bad. I am pretty certain it not harm the alt, since it still needs to spin with the ac on or off.

 
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Thank you for your response. I'm still a little concerned that it is the clutch assembly. The ac works fine and when you engage the clutch for the ac the noise is greatly reduced and at times makes almost no noise. I'm not sure wether I should attempt to replace the clutch assembly or bite the bullet and install a new compressor.

 
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I had the same issue, it was cheaper to get an aftermarket compressor with the clutch installed them to have them rebuild the old one. Basically, you need the clutch, and a field coil, parts and labor alone where close to an aftermarket unit.

 
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I took your advice civicpapi and purchased the compressor and dryer. Can anyone give me direction on the best way to attack this job? It looks like I can get it done from the bottom but if anyone has previous experience and can provide specifics I would be very grateful. The local garage wanted $300+ for removal and replace. With two daughters in college I can't afford it.