[s-cars] A/C compressor noise

[Eugene Yen]

Folks,
First of all, many thanks to all who replied to my post regarding A/C
compressor noise from a couple of weeks ago.  To refresh everyone's
memory, my '95.5 S6 makes a whirring noise with a faint clattering
when the A/C is off.  The noise goes away when I turn the A/C on.

I finally found the time to do some more troubleshooting last night.
I removed the serpentine belt and turned the compressor pulley by
hand.  It feels rough, and it makes a grinding noise, so I'm pretty
sure that the compressor clutch bearing is hosed.

My local independent mechanic quoted me $1k to replace the compressor
($750 compressor + 2.5 hrs labor), and he recommended that I replace
the whole compressor, not just the clutch.  Once again, I appeal to
this list's wisdom in the hope of saving some money:

1. Do I really need to replace the compressor, or can I get away with
just replacing the clutch?
2. Could you guys please recommend some reputable online sources for
an A/C compressor and/or clutch?
3. Bentley shows the clutch replacement procedure with the compressor
sitting on a workbench, but...can I replace the clutch without
removing the whole compressor from the car? (I would like to avoid
disconnecting the hoses and the associated discharge/recharge of the
system)

Thanks again,
Eugene