A/C System Purge/ Evacuation Options

[Racer X]

When I swap my motor next weekend, I was going to also replace the receiver/drier, since I had the system open at one point to replace the compressor about a year ago. The new hose assy has been sitting in my garage for long enough... figured that this would be a good time to take care of it.

However, my friend who had a Snap On service machine has informed me that it needs a $500 pump replaced on it. I'm sure this is a dumb question, but are there any DIY options out there for system evacuation, aside from crackin' open the manifold and hoping I don't freeze off any important appendages?

 

[SASHO91]

there is a DIY way, but its kinda hard.... it involves buying the manifold gauges, obtaining an empty 30 or so lb. frion bottle, a tub of ice, and some time...
I cant recall all the steps on it... but you basically hook the system up to manifold, then from the manifold to the empty bottle, in the tub of ice. This will draw out the frion.... for the most part. But like i said, its been awhile since i have seen it done. aside from that, i dont think that there is any other way... well that i can remember.
maybe someone else will chime in.

 

[luigisho]

There are some auto ac forums out there that should be able to help. Basically I think you need a compressor, a valve thingy (forget the name ) that turns the compression to vacuum, and a way to capture the freon.. or do whatever with it. The best option might be to go to an ac shop and work a deal for draining the system and keeping the very expensive r12 they capture and resell.

Edit: looking at this I think a compressor and venturi valve is not the best way to go. http://www.aircondition.com/tech/questions/38/

Check here for stuff I saved over the years

http://www.acsource.net/acforum/
http://www.autoacforum.com/
http://www.firstfives.org/faq/AC/ac_charge.html
http://iroczone.com/projac01.html
http://www.aircondition.com/wwwboard/