Aircon question A4 Tdi AFN engine

[D10M]

I went to look at a s/h A4 today and the owner said the aircon was not working. I could see the ribbed belt that should have been around the compressor had been shredded. I remember from a previous Volvo that if the aircon was not run from time to time then various seals would dry up and need replacing. So what is the likelyhood of the aircon working if I replaced the belt when I have the timing belt done. I think it has been quite a time since it worked. I am not sure what caused the ribbed belt to destruct but will replace any tensioners also if I bought the car. What does the magnetic clutch do on the compressor? Can this go bad throwing off the belt?
Apart from this the car seemed fine except it clonked over rough road. Some ball joints had been replaced for the new MOT but still some problems to sort out there.
Thanks
Mark

[gjm123]

New )maybe refurbed with warranty) aircon compressor need be no more than £300. This obviously doesn't cover all eventualities but is a good start. The belt on the A4 TDi we've bought isn't present and the pulley has signs of oxidation so I'll assume it's not been there for a while. To be sorted as and when...

A shredded belt is likely to be due to it not having been replaced when it should have been. Do you have evidence that the cambelt has been done? If not - get it sorted (or DIY).

A full set of front suspension components can be had (on eBay) for £120-150. There's a company in Dewsbury (W. Yorkshire) who can supply these, and will also fit for a price (unknown).

[D10M]

No evidence of the timing belt being changed although 1 owner and FSH (stamped book but last 2 years missing).Its done 123K which means I would do belts etc and as it is a local car bought and serviced at the one dealer/garage (apparently) then I will ring up and see what they can tell me.
Good to know the suspension parts are affordable.
Thanks
Mark

[D10M]

In case anyone sees this I found the following post answered my questions link (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=44280)