I just took my '86 Camper to the only auto A/C repair shop that I know of in
the Sacramento, CA area (Polar Bear Auto Air). Because of their apparent
monopoly, I have been a customer of theirs -- on average about once every
other year -- since 1990 when I bought the van.

Despite having spent well over $1,000 in repairs, the A/C never seemed to do
a very good job of cooling, even when it had just been "repaired." The last
time I was there (around 2003), a compressor that they had installed (but
was now out of warranty) had burned up. When I showed them my stack of
receipts, they took pity on me and installed a replacement for free but with
"absolutely no warranty." I got the impression that they hoped I'd never
come back.

Once again, the A/C wasn't working so I took it to them today. Their
verdict: (1) compressor is shot, (2) two long hoses (total about 30') from
front of van to A/C are leaking and need replacement, and (3) all new
refrigerant needed (along w/ various and sundry other repairs). The tab:
$2,565.

When I heard this, I about had a stroke. It seems like it would be less
costly to replace the whole d--- system. Am I wrong? Also, where can I go
for a 2nd opinion in the northern California area? I'm really fed up w/
Polar Bear. The only other place I can find around here that does auto A/C
repairs, however, is Midas and I've heard too many horror stories about them
to entrust them to do this work.

--
Ray Reinhard