Originally Posted by VincentGsrq

When I started to evaluate my AC my plan was to install only what had to be replaced. The system was not leaking at all but it needed a new compressor. In the end I changed tactics and decided I only wanted to do the job once (hopefully) and I replaced all of the components with OEM parts including the low limit switch, the compressor is the most expensive component and most people say if you replace the compressor you must do the condenser and drier as well. Once you have the evaporator out, it and the expansion valve are together labor wise. I also replaced the idler pulley and of course the drive belt. Factory shop manuals outline a different procedure for recharging the system as they have different equipment than just cans of r134a and a vacuum pump. I would recommend draining and measuring the pag-46 oil from the new (mine was a Denso) compressor and then add back into it the total volume of oil for all of the components being replaced as well as a small amount of dye. Two things I want to mention regarding recharging the system, I used a CPS 2-stage pump and it would only pull just over 28 on my gauges (Mastercool) and not 30, I left it on vacuum for almost 2 hours and then disconnected it and waited almost another two hours before starting to recharge after no loss of vacuum at all. What a lot of the videos don't tell you is how long it takes to add all of the refrigerant to the system, many do show the can position, as in don't shake or turn upside down. I used a scale and a sharpie to measure how much I had put in and tried to get it in between the specs. This had been my 1st time doing AC repair and this site and you tube were invaluable in getting it done.

Originally Posted by Bad Luck

I see that your signature says you're in Denver, Colorado. At that elevation 25 inches of mercury vacuum is about as good as you're going to get.

Originally Posted by AnotherCO4Runner

I’m having an issue with charging. The low pressure gauge is about 60/65 and holding, the can of refrigerant is not losing weight.

What could be obstructing things?

Originally Posted by Bad Luck

Are you charging on the low or high side? Is that the pressure reading with the ac on or off?

Originally Posted by azrex

Assuming that you had pulled vacuum on the system, when you initially open the valve to introduce the refrigerant, it should have pulled much of the can in immediately. Usually that's enough to engage the compressor and draw in the rest of the can. You may need to apply 12 volts to the compressor wire in order to engage the clutch and draw in the refrigerant. Make sure you're pulling it in through the low side.

Originally Posted by azrex

Assuming that you had pulled vacuum on the system, when you initially open the valve to introduce the refrigerant, it should have pulled much of the can in immediately. Usually that's enough to engage the compressor and draw in the rest of the can. You may need to apply 12 volts to the compressor wire in order to engage the clutch and draw in the refrigerant. Make sure you're pulling it in through the low side.