add 134

Hi
Am new at this forum,so hope I am doing it right.
Have 2001 Taurus wagon with 24 valve engine.
The AC was starting to cool less,so went to get it serviced.
In CA new coolant can't be added if the system has leak.so the price to repair runs up to $759.00
I want to add a can of coolant my self,what are the instructions I may need above what is on the can?
Will I ahve problems?
The leak was suposedly fixed when I bought car over 4 years ago,so it is a low leak.
'Any help wold be appreciated.
Thanks Sid

Depending on your environmental state laws, you may be able to purchase a can of 134a (I believe that is the current a/c gas being used) freon and connections at your local auto parts store. I know here in my state, you can buy the kit at the store. you should also be able to purchase a can with dye in it to locate the leak in your system. I would get the leak fixed first before adding more coolant.

When you go to the parts store, don't ask for coolant. If the guy behind the counter knows his stuff, he will take you over to the ethylene glycol section (Antifreeze/coolant). What you are after is refridgerant, R-134a for anything newer than 1994 model year.

-Rod