a/c does not work in cold
 

As the title states, my air conditioning does not work in cold. The heat works wonderfully if that helps. I tried to recharge the system with refrigerant but it wouldn't even hold a charge and I could hear a hissing coming from the front drivers side of the radiator area. What is in that area that is linked to the a/c. Also, I can do just about anything mechanically but when it comes to a/c I am clueless. Any idea on how much it costs to get this fixed. I know it depends on what the issue is but I am looking for a rough estimate.

Thanks,
Eric

The AC Condenser, in front of the radiator, may have a hole in it on the driver's side. Pull the grill off and take a look at it in that area to see if there's any damage.

OK, I know there are a few dings from rocks in it so maybe a line got cracked. Seeing as how the system is depleted of refrigerant would it be safe (legal) for me to replace the condenser myself? What else would I have to do? I read I would need to have a shop flush and fill the system but im not sure. Is it a hard thing to replace?

Thanks,
Eric

I am reading it is ok to replace the condenser if it is depleted already. Anyone know what kind of disconnect tool I need for this? I see a few different types. White circular tools, multi-colored wrench looking tools, and multi-colored offset tools. Which ones do I need? Also, I read to go ahead and replace the accumulator and liquid line. Should I replace the discharge line as well?

Thanks,
Eric

I have many times, but you need to replace other items as well when the system is down being it was open to outside air. Then the system needs to be evacuated before recharging and adding oil to it.

Then enjoy your defroster and the AC.

Thanks Fred, I did read to go ahead and replace the liquid line and accumulator. Should I go ahead and replace the discharge line too? Do I oil it before or after having it evacuated?

Thanks,
Eric

I believe other items to be replaced would be the 'expansion valve' (aluminum block located on firewall). And the 'drier/accumulator' (canister with the sight glass).
The expansion valves small orifice can get blocked by contaminates.
The drier/accumulator can reintroduce contaminates if reused.
Each are $20 at RockAuto.
I am not an AC guy, I learned this yesterday when I had my system diagnosed by a professional.

So its not necessary to replace the liquid line, or is it?

Thanks,
Eric

I haven't a clue.
Her is a link to someones post from yesterday (drhoward1988), he claims to know about AC systems. Maybe link this thread to him in a PM.
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f59/wh...7/#post2858304

I sent you a pm bud