Coming home from the Nats the compressor on my '72 Charger started throwing sparks from the clutch. Is the compressor locked up or is the problem in the clutch?

Problem with the clutch, I'd almost guarantee it. They go bad, I recently replaced one.

I have no problem tearing into it but are there any pointers anyone wants to share? Are parts available?

Could have been from your compressor locking up or slowing down due to high head pressure. The clutch was slipping. I had my a/c on while crusing Heath and on the highway from Brice. The clutch puts out a unique smell while it is slipping. I would smell it inside the car once i a while and sometimes hear it squealing.

Smell anything funny?

To pull the clutch off, I take off the little bolt in the middle. pop the clutch plate off, then use a big bolt that threads into the clutch and pulls the clutch off. Years ago I was looking for a puller and never found one. I found out that you just need a threaded bolt to pop it off.
I think it is a 5/8" coarse thread.

No smell just sparks. I have run it since converting to R134 two years ago. I first heard it squeal heading home on 70 so I turned it off for the remainder of the trip. When I stopped for gas I had my son watch it when I turned it on. It squealed again and that's when he saw the sparks.

When you converted to 134A, did you add oil that is compatible with 134A? If not, the compressor may be locking up.

Now is the time to decide whether to convert it to the new compressor. 38 hp to drive the RV2 style or 3HP to drive the new rotary vane style.

You'ld have to modify your brackets to move it towards the driver's side but it can be done. A friend has one on his small block 73 Chally.

I got a rebuilt RV2 compressor from Oreilly's before the power tour. It was $125.

funny you posted this. our 73 charger has a/c and the clutch locked up while driving on the highway, no sparks but the belts just dragged across the pulley and melted off

We did put the correct oil in it when we converted it. Acutally I have too much money in the system: new dryer, new expansion valve, all new o rings, vaccumed out and recharged.
But yes I am considering putting in a new system. Does it really free up that much HP? I know it would remove a lot of weight. If it is only the clutch I'll replace it and keep trucking until I pull the engine. I'll pull the clutch tomorrow and think about the whole deal.
Thanks for everyone's help and stories.