Will it kill the A/C system if I don't evacuate it first? I did replace some seals, so it was open to outside air.

Will it kill the A/C system if I don't evacuate it first? I did replace some seals, so it was open to outside air.
No. I replaced the compressor and did not evacuate prior to recharging, and my AC system did not die or explode, yet (it has been a few months now.) It is not super dooper cold, but it never was really cold anyways.

If you were converting from R12 to 134 you would be killing your system for sure. If not you should be OK. I had to disasemble my son's Corsica a month ago and just recharged. Still OK.

You can refill it and your system will be ok. You will however see a lot better performance out of it if you have a vacuum pulled on it to get out all the air.

If your A/C system was open for any time, moisture will collect inside the system. The purpose of evacuating the system is to remove moisture to prevent internal damage.

You can refill it and your system will be ok. You will however see a lot better performance out of it if you have a vacuum pulled on it to get out all the air.
:iagree:
If you have a problem loading the freon, just loosen the fittings at the compressor ever sooo slightly, enough to let air out (1/2 to 3/4 turns) for about 10 seconds. (let the air out- not the oil or all of the gas).

If you have oil spraying out, you loosened too much.

i evacuated mine first just to be sure.

Refrig. is held in the oil for a short while and continues to boil off, this will keep air and moisture from getting in the system to a large extent. Air and moisture over time will create an acid compound in the system that will eat it up, so try to get it done pretty quick.

Thanks all. FYI--only replaced a few seals on top end,was open just long enough to quickly swap them out. system was and is r134.