A/C complete meltdown

[cbeck]

I have a 2000 spectra, which no longer blows cool air. I just payed 50 bucks for the local mechanic to tell me my compressor has dumped enough metal into the system that they cannot blowout the condensor. He said the evaporator is ok, and that's about it. At 1,500 for repair and parts, there's no way I can afford that.

I'm really hoping I can find some used parts somewhere and do it myself. Having never messed with a/c on a car before, can anybody walk me through what I would need to do to replace everything?

Thankfully, at least I live in Texas where it is nice and cool all summer.

[MeettheCreeper]

Sounds like you may want to get a second opinion.

I have never had to "Blow out" the condenser on any vehicle. Most of the metal particles if any end up in the accumulator or reciever /dryer. (Same part some call it by different names)

The AC is under psi so I would not recommend trying to do this yourself without the proper tools to evacuate the system of freon. Freon can and will cause severe freeze burns and cna cause blindness if you get in your eye.