Yes since you don't have a vacuum pump or any other necessary tools you will have to go somewhere to get it done. Yes you fill in the low side.

 

Can I just fill on the low side or do I need to check the high as well? I guess if I can find the die and check for leaks. If I find it, I can order the part but them I'll need to vacuum out before the part can be changed, correct?

 

Yes, you will need to vacuum it down before you take it apart. Harbor freight has a pretty cheap one if you want to go the route with doing it yourself.

Personally, if you are just trying to find a leak just add freon and once it's leaked down look for the culprit. This would be the quickest route for you.

YouTube is your friend to learn about your a/c system. Watch a few videos to get the just of what are trying to do.

 

I'm assuming Freon with dye?

 

Always use with dye

 

So I found this leak tester, will it do the job? it doesn't seem to require the dye.


If not, I found this with dye and sealant, is this okay?

 

I have a leak tester and think it's a waste of money. It's too inconsistent.

I have never used a sealant in my a/c system and never recommend it. I know some who has I just don't. You can make your own decision about that. It could work for you and at the very minimum afford you the opportunity to search for the leak with the dye add-in.

 

I did a little checking and found that the compressor is engaging okay but the pressure is 12.5 lbs.

 

Ok, so you need to find the leak. Your compressor will engage if there is enough in. When it's empty the clutch will not engage. The only way to solve the issue completely is to find the leak.

By no means am I a pro at a/c systems. I went and got certified and have been doing it for some years now but I'm still learning. I can only tell you how I troubleshoot issues that come to me. I'm am a big DIYer and sometimes do thing differently than others. I can tell you your issue is simple. A leak is easy to fix if you have the necessary tools.

Fill the system and check where the leak is and go from there. I do know a few good companies that I buy a/c parts from that's has never failed me. If you feel like you can fix this on your own you will save yourself a lot of money.

 

Okay I watched a few youtube videos last night. I looked at the price of the stuff I need and it seems expensive, looks okay of I lived in the US but I live in Canada. Does anyone have a good place to buy A/C repair equipment in Canada? I need manifold set, dye, freon large can, uv test kit, vacuum. Anything to add to my list?
How much Freon does my system hold? Thanks again.