Recharging A/C system question

[spolando]

I just replaced the A/C compressor and drier on a 1998 Escort ZX2 that had an accident with the system being open for some time. I now am ready to recharge and understand it must be evacuated prior to recharging. I bought a vacuum pump and ask about the connection of the pump to the system. Do I need a gage that allows me to attach the pump? Do they sell hoses that are used for this purpose? Where? Should I assume it needs a complete oil recharge too? Any idea of exactly the steps I need to perform to get the system up? Sorry for all the questions but I want to do this right.
Thanks for reading and your advice,
Scott

[wehswarriorS-10]

best bet....let someone recharge it with an air conditioning service machine....becuase you have to put the exact amount of r134a and pag oil in it or u will have a coglocked compressor and the amount of refrigerant and oil you will need will cost just as much as you would pay someone to do it

[2000mudder]

i would also recomend a shop to do the recharge.if you insist on doing yourself just buy the recharge kit but it might end up leaking or not working right and you will be at the shop getting it done right anyway.