Okay. When you open up the AC system, you'll need to evacuate it again,
afterwards. So you'll need a vacuum pump. I got one from Bestech
(<http://www.bestechind.com>)

You'll need a set up gauges, and you'll need to make sure the fittings
on the vacuum lines to the guages match that which you have on your
vacuum pump, the AC fittings on your engine, and the refrigerant taps
you use.

Since yours was converted to R134a, you'll probably have quick
disconnects on the high and low side fittings.

Technically it is illegal to vent HCFC (aka R134a) refrigerant. I often
wonder if a leak in an AC system could get you fined?

So, after getting all the good stuff, you'll need to pull a vacuum.
Then you can add refrigerant.

How fast you leak refrigerant depends on where the leak is. It sounds
like the shop you went to already checked things out (probably put dye
in the system to find the leak. But do not disconnect the refrigerant
hoses until have had a chance to check the pressure in the system. It's
not a good idea to disconnect pressurized systems. If there is any R134
in the system, you should have a shop recover it prior to opening up
the system.

Once you have replaced the compressor you will likely have to add some
oil to the compressor. The bentley has the info for the R12 system.
Other than the type of oil, the quantities are probably similar (I have
never replaced a compressor.)

On Jun 20, 2005, at 4:38 PM, Craig, Jim M. {PCNA} wrote:

> Based on this I am considering:
>
> 1.  Buying a new compressor from another vendor and installing myself.
> If so, what is the procedure since I already have a converted system.
> Other parts to buy etc?  Best sources?
> 2.  Just charging it and seeing how long it will hold up.  What is the
> correct/best procedure I can do at home?  What tools gauges do I need?
> Does the speed of the leak correlate with usage at all?  Would any type
> of sealer help slow the leak?
>
> I have some pretty solid mechanical skills but very limited experience
> with AC.