Another a/c question, '99 Malibu v6

[barefootboatnik]

My a/c has ceased operation. The control head operates normally, no switching between outside and recirc, and I followed the instructions here several months ago to fix the flickering on/off problem that plagues so many of these cars.

The issue now is that the compressor won't kick on. It does work... when I replaced the relay from the box under the hood with jumper wires, the compressor came on just fine. It doesn't cool at all, though, and I can't seem to get it to accept a freon charge. Should I evacuate the system and refill it? If so, where can I evacuate the system from? The Haynes manual is woefully lacking in terms of a/c troubleshooting. Also, are there any other fuses/relays I should check? Where would they be located? I noticed the fuse panels inside each door don't have anything related to the a/c system. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated...

Thanks in advance!

[bcopeland]

I replaced my compressor not too long ago. I experienced that same thing - compressor running and weak coolig power. Really don't know what the problem is but when you hear, so will I!

[barefootboatnik]

Any clues? The Haynes manual is really worthless when it comes to a/c... ANY help would be greatly appreciated!

[tractorboy]

did you connect a gauge up to see if you had a charge, ?