So my 02 max 6 speed standard is having issues... It runs rough starting around 2300 rpms when the ac is on, also there is a very noticeable loose of power when the ac is on as well, I took it to my shop and told them it was either the alternator or the compressor, hoping they could narrow it down... Wrong! They told me the same thing I told them.... It does have 185xxx miles on it and it is about time the alternator gets replaced
However I did notice yesterday when I was sitting in neutral waiting for someone, I noticed that my ac stopped being cold after a while, but when I turned the ac off and the on, it was cold again... That makes me concerned because I live in Arizona, and I have no money to have my shop replace my ac, however I want to learn how to do ac my self, should I attempt this?

 

If you really do have a problem then doing it yourself isn't going to be cheap for you anyway. You need to rent or buy a vacuum pump which is at least a couple hundred dollars. Are you willing to spend a week or four to learn how to fix the problem? A compressor will be a few hundred, then you should replace the "Receiver/Drier or Accumulator" and also any o-ring seals that are worn so do a leak test before you take it all apart and replace parts. Don't forget your pag oil. Might as well put in R-134a+ it's the blue can and says NASA on the can. I did it myself and it was worth it but it's not something you want to shortcut because all your work could be thrown out the window over a $0.30 o-ring if you overlook something. Good luck.

 

Mine's in for a new compressor right now-i do 80+% of the work on my cars but A/C is out of my league just due to the environmental concerns and equipment required.

Mine had been running rough too but it was just my pass side engine mount and idler pulley...just throwing it out there.

 

That's great to know thanks

 

When my compressor pulley bearing went bad I replaced the compressor and dryer myself. I had a local shop remove the refrigerant so I could perform my work. Once I was done I returned and they did a vacuum and recharge. I think I paid the shop $35 bucks for that. Compressor and dryer was a couple hundred though, so my savings was really labor. Its easy to replace in my opinion just make sure whatever you take apart gets a new O-ring. So this could be an option for you if your looking to replace the compressor yourself. Good Luck