[lozawa]

I had a similar problem on my '99. Professionals identified it as the compressor clutch. I bought a used compressor (with clutch) and was about to install it, but it turned out to be an electrical problem, so the compressor is still on my shelf almost 15 years later. The ignition switch, specifically, was the root cause, which is a known, recalled, defective part on those older vans.

So the tip is to at least consider that maybe the clutch is fine, but is just not getting the strong voltage it needs. Do you have a way to monitor system voltage while driving? A weak / failing alternator could be contributing.

Also, to clarify - you say "pulley area." Is that definitely the AC pulley, or could it be the drive belt tensioner, or even the alternator pulley? I had a random rattling in my 2011 LX which ended up being the alternator pulley (not the alternator itself, which is still doing fine).

My 2001, has the exact same symptoms, as OP. Do you mean, where the key goes, ignition switch, is causing the
rattle?
This has been going on for a couple of years now. My plan, when something "stops working", then should be
easy fix. ie. still on original alternator, air conditioner compressor. 212,000 miles).