Originally Posted by FromTexasInColorado

So, I got some outlandish shop quotes to pull a vacuum and put in refigerant ($200+), so I ordered a vacuum pump and manifold guage off Amazon with one day delivery for about $175 bucks. I watched some videos and I'm going to give it a go tonight. Doesn't seem too tough. In any case, I wont "need' the AC for my trip, so I'll be good either way. I just hate for something to not work on my rig.

I'm not saving a lot of money, but at least I'll have a vacuum pump and I'll be "in the money" if I ever use it again. And, I'll have learned something new! My wife has an '09 mini cooper, so its definitely possible she'll have an issue in the coming months or year.

Also, I'm now going to suggest anyone replace their idler pulley. It's 13 bucks. Really quieted the front of the engine down.

I'll post up whatever pics I take on black bear pass. Hopefully I don't die!

Originally Posted by FromTexasInColorado

Thanks. I did the job on Tuesday night without too much issue. I had purchased a kitchen scale already, and I got pretty close to the perfect amount in. It was a little tricky because I was having to pick up and tilt the cans around to get the refrigerant to flow, I think the can tap was not fully engaging.

AC is working well! Not too bad, and I've even learned a thing or two.

That AC gauge chart is very helpful, I've bookmarked it.

Hooking it up to the trailer and pulling it to Ouray, Colorado tomorrow morning!