Doesn't seem like too tough a task. What are the basic steps ? My biggest question right now is, can you purge the entire system by attaching a hose to the low pressure side and letting the freon out ?

Your supposed to have a AC system that recycles the freon. That is not how everyone does it. If you replace the compressor you should replace the reciever drier and evacuate the system with a vacum pump. If you are doing the work your self you will have to recharge the system with R134 instead of R12. You can buy Drugs easier htan R12 unless you live in Mexico and then can buy it a couple dollars. R134 works good just make sure you put enough oil in the system and should invest in some Guages for the Charging.

Your supposed to have a AC system that recycles the freon. That is not how everyone does it. If you replace the compressor you should replace the reciever drier and evacuate the system with a vacum pump. If you are doing the work your self you will have to recharge the system with R134 instead of R12. You can buy Drugs easier htan R12 unless you live in Mexico and then can buy it a couple dollars. R134 works good just make sure you put enough oil in the system and should invest in some Guages for the Charging.

Good news is, I do have an R134 system.

How important is replacing the drier ? I've heard that, but I have 160,000 miles, and realisticly only hope to get another 2-3 years out of it.

If you are going to spend the money for a compressor I would really get the reciever drier. Most places wont honor the warranty without replacing it. Its like replacing the fuel pump in you vechile and putting back the old gas filter. The reciever drier works on the same principal. Sinse you have R 134 shouldnt be any problem as long as you use a vacuum pump on the system before adding Freon.