I have a 1995 CTD, 3/4 ton, A/C systems are definately not my strong subject. When I put the a/c on max I get little to no A/C. Can I just try and recharge the system with one of the recharge kits at auto stores or do I need to bring it into a shop/dealer? Any input is appreciated.

Buy a cheapo gauge set and see what your pressures are - work from there. They'll have a little pressure/diagnosis chart in the package usually. Look for leaks too - oily residue. If you just throw a can of freon in it that may solve the problem but it's better to do things the right way. That compressor is a pain in the ass to replace (the lines on top were hard to get at on mine) and overcharging can screw it up.
If you have to fix any leaky parts, it's a good time to change the receiver-drier and thermal expansion valve while the system is open. Then you have to vacuum the system to get any moisture out and charge the system. This is usually better left to someone with an EPA license and the proper equipment (AC recovery unit).

Go ahead and take it in for service. If you are not familar with A/C systems, anything you would learn from the gauges wouldn't help you anyway. If there is a leak somewhere, it will need to be found and fixed before you can recharge the system.

The only easy thing I can think of to tell you to look for is the A/C compressor clutch. If you don't hear a click in the engine compartment when you turn on the A/C, then you could have a bad clutch and/or coil. Have someone turn the A/C on with the engine running and look to see if the compressor is turning. If not, it could be simply a switch, but most times the clutch is bad. This normally isn't too hard of a job to replace, just get a whole clutch,coil, pulley, and/or bearing setup and replace it. If it's not something that simple, take it to a pro and get it checked out. It will probably be less hassle in the long run. Just my .02

He could also have a bad pressure switch, which is very common, in the 94/95 years.

The one that I had bad was located by the firewall...cost about $15 from Advance Auto and can be removed without fear of discharging the system (schrader valve).

If the pressure switches do not work, the clutch/AC will not turn on.

steved

Hmmm...didn't think about that one. I turn mine on, and the compressor doesn't come on, which tells me that the low pressure switch is engaged. Of course, probaly have a damn leak somewhere... :shaking: