Do it myself A/C repairs

[Mike Arman]

I've finally decided to learn how to fix my own A/C system - after all,
I've done everything else, and if all that stands between me and being
comfortable is a few dollars and a couple of hours of learning, well, I'm
ready.

Car is an 86 5K, has been converted to R-134 by a local mobile monkey lad
(last year). Worked a week and bled down. New compressor, new drier. Said
monkey lad managed to BREAK two of the three STEEL mounting brackets for
the compressor, so I'll need them, too. (GM A-6 style compressor). Monkey
lad wisely left town.

I know I'll need a vacuum pump, a gauge set, and a leak detector.

Parts likely needed will be a pressure hose and probably a new drier
(system hasn't been open, but hasn't been charged in a year.)

Questions:

1) Anyone have the mounting brackets, or am I on my way to the you-pull-it?

2) I have a little vacuum pump from Harbor Freight - hook it up to an air
compressor, and it pulls the vacuum down in the car - neat item or waste of
money?

3) Does aeroquip make A/C hoses (like they make the power steering hose?),
or am I buying from the local autoparts store? (Dealer is not open for
consideration. Period.)

4) Can anyone point me in the direction of a website (or two or three)
which has step by step instructions on how to proceed? I have a general
idea how this is done, but I prefer to learn from the sad experiences of
others - it is much faster and cheaper than learning from my own sad
experiences.

Tired of sweating,

Mike Arman