[wde3477]

First, if you aren't fully comfortable with your mechanical abilities - get the work done by a professional.

A mis-step while working on the A/C system can result in further equipment damage, or worse yet, personal injury - both of which are likely to more than offset the savings of doing it yourself. There are high pressures and extremely cold temperatures involved here, just lying in wait to put some hurt on something or someone.

If you choose to proceed, suggest to use a full set of gauges that measures both the high and low side pressures - not the cheapy gauge provided with some recharge kits which measures only the low-side pressure. Do not use any of the stop-leaks or sealers - yes, they will plug the leak, but also will plug just about everything else.

Get ahold of a basic service training manual or the like. I have a book published by MasterCool that goes into various operating aspects of the A/C system.

Be sure to wear proper protective equipment, particularly for your hands and your eyes.

If you're not sure where the leak is, there are fluorescent dye products that can be introduced into the freon to better see any leaks.

I am not a licensed mobile HVAC tech - but it is my understanding that it is illegal to discharge freon, even the R-134, freely into the atmosphere. While anyone can purchase the R-134, it is also my understanding that it is also illegal for an unlicensed person to install the freon as well as to install freon into a system with a known leak. If my understandings are true, then you will need to do conscience and gut checks if you wish to proceed.

If the system is torn into, then you will need to have access to a vacuum pump meant for A/C service, and may also need some special tools to undo the hose connectors.

Not to scare you off, but things have gotten complicated with the legal aspects of A/C work, and the dangers of working on an A/C system have always been something to highly respect.