[QUOTE]Originally posted by Slows2k
You don't have any of the charging/evacuation or recovery equipment neccesary for AC service. So even if you remove the AC hardline, you will not be able to properly repair the system. AC work has very specialized equipment (Expensive too) and requires proper training and certification.

 

I've seen plenty of AC systems and recovery equipment damaged from improper repair procedures by people that have no understanding of how the AC system works. Cross contaminated refrigerant, systems charged with air, wrong oils used, There are more ways to potentially screw up this expensive system that I can list.

My personal favorite is the individuals who charge the system with propane, with no regard for safety in a accident.

If your AC doesn't work, unless you have specific training on how to correctly diagnose and repair as well as the ASE certification to legally service the systems, Don't try this at home. There is no DIY here.

For anyone that has a vehicle that uses R12, do not let any shop charge the system with R22, propane, butane, or any other non-approved refrigerant. Most R12 systems can by properly converted to the new R134A, which is the only reccomended retro-fit refrigerant.

Sorry for the rant, but there are many misconceptions on AC service by all parties concerned. I have heard many from technicians, service writers, and customers.

 

that silver thing is the dryer/accumilator. it aborbs mosture out of the AC system (even though it is a closed system). as stated above, if you have no experience with AC systems, take it to a shop that does AC work, otherwise you could cause more harm then good. I don't think your system is over pressurized (the AC compressor will stop if the pressure gets too low or high), I suspect a bad fitting/manufacturing defect

 

Point well taken, no DIY here, leaving it to the professionals