well u obviously have a leak. hence ur ogiginal problem. when ur friend "retrofitted" it with R-134a the refridgerant just escaped again.

so detecting and locating the leak is the first step. usually its the front seal on the compressor or a ruptured hose.

next, since ur half way there, convert to R134a. the wal-mart kits half *** it and are a JOKE. to properly convert over u'll need a new reciever drier, exvaporator, hoses and/or compressor. plus the orifice tube and all new o-rings and service fittings.

this **** is expensive so the $600 extimate isnt right around normal. plus theres the labor to evacuate the system, pull a vacuum, and installation. plus refrigerant, proper oil and disposial...

if ur strapped for cash may want to try a vo-tech or technical/trade school. sometimes they take in live outside work...

 

yeah it's screwed but fixible, i just don't have the dinero, i'm gonna eat a xanax and chill out, i can't have my pie and eat the cake too. i'll quit rambling about this ac now

 

xaxies