Thanks to everyone for their recent help with my AC questions (especially Spook and Mapleleafer - you guys have really got it together!) My AC is now up to snuff with a new condenser, accumulator and is blowing cold even in the unusually cold weather we're getting here in NY.

I wanted to recommend a couple of places for the necessary equipment, in case anyone else wants to do this but is scared off by the cost of investing in the tools. Believe me, it's much cheaper to get the equipment (which will last for many years, and will sure to be put to good future use, especially considering how these AC systems are designed!) than to go in for 1 repair/recharge at the shop. If you have more than one car, then it's even more of a no-brainer.

Harbor Freight sells a nice gauge set for only $40, and if you have a good air compressor, they also have a vacuum pump attachment for $17. Just note that you'll have to wait about 2 weeks for the shipping - there's a reason why their prices are so low. I went the official vacuum-pump route, since I don't have a good air compressor; sjdiscount tools sells a good basic model for $120.

So all in all what was originally quoted to me as a one-time $950 repair has cost about $400 including all the tools needed for future work. I highly recommend this route to others!

Ben,

Another way to deal with A/C repairs is to rent the gauges and vacuum pump. My local auto A/C parts/repair shop rents a gauge/pump package for $20 per day.
I've tried using the venturi HB vacuum device and I'd say, save your money and rent a real vacuum pump. Nice going on the A/C repair. The BB, it's members, a willingness to learn something new and do a little work yourself, can save Brick owners large amounts of $$$$$. I'd rather invest that money in new parts or as in your case, new tools. Not a bad idea to take some of those savings and put a tip in the BB tip jar as well.