Vacuum Pump-Rent/Buy/Borrow in Calgary?

Hi all - my 1997 Civic just came back from AutoTemp and for $60 they were kind enough to tell me that there's a big leak in my evaporator.

They were asking for $750 to fix it which I can't afford and it's pretty easy to get to in a Civic so I'm giving it a shot. I've never done A/C work before but I think I can figure out installing the evaporator.

BUT I don't have a vacuum pump or manifold gauges to test the system with new refrigerant. Does anyone know where I can beg/borrow/buy/rent one of those in/around Calgary? Would rather not drop $200 on a set for a one-time use.

Thank you!!

Could see if u-wrench has some a/c equipment

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by ercchry

Could see if u-wrench has some a/c equipment

---

Sadly they don't, nor do they seem like they want you doing A/C work there unfortunately. Good idea though.

Which Autotemp location did you take it to? I have a vehicle that needs the a/c system checked out.

Not sure of any place that rents out vacuum pumps or manifold gauges. Maybe Canadian Tire, Napa or Auto Value? I haven't seen any parts store that sells R134a either, mostly just R12.

If the system is already evacuated, just use one of those RedTek R-12a kits from crappy tire after you change your evaporator. They're only $50 I think. Run it for a couple of weeks, and if it holds it's pressure, go back to Autotemp get it evacuated again and properly serviced.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Tik-Tok

If the system is already evacuated, just use one of those RedTek R-12a kits from crappy tire after you change your evaporator. They're only $50 I think. Run it for a couple of weeks, and if it holds it's pressure, go back to Autotemp get it evacuated again and properly serviced.

---

Where did you hear this? Most AC guys I've talked to say to NEVER use the can shit off the shelf - unless youre just in it for a very short term use.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by revelations

Where did you hear this? Most AC guys I've talked to say to NEVER use the can shit off the shelf - unless youre just in it for a very short term use.

---

thats what hes saying. use it to check for leaks. if its good to go then get it properly filled.

PM me i just quit my job i have every thing you need and i'll charge it for you.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by J.M.

Which Autotemp location did you take it to? I have a vehicle that needs the a/c system checked out.

Not sure of any place that rents out vacuum pumps or manifold gauges. Maybe Canadian Tire, Napa or Auto Value? I haven't seen any parts store that sells R134a either, mostly just R12.

---

I went to the 42nd Ave location - the one further south apparently doesn't have an A/C tech.

I wouldn't say they were overly helpful, they said the evaporator had a leak but had nothing else useful to say unfortunately. The diagnostic came to $57.

- - - Updated - - -

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by ShermanEF9

thats what hes saying. use it to check for leaks. if its good to go then get it properly filled.

---

That's exactly what I'm thinking now - I think I'll give it a shot with the R12A stuff and see if the compressor even engages. If not, then I have some more work to do!

- - - Updated - - -

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by cancer man

PM me i just quit my job i have every thing you need and i'll charge it for you.

---

That would be amazing! Thanks so much for the offer - I'll shoot you a PM.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by cancer man

PM me i just quit my job i have every thing you need and i'll charge it for you.

---

Big shout-out to @cancer man for recharging the Savage Honda fit today. A+ service from an A+ dude.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by cancer man

PM me i just quit my job i have every thing you need and i'll charge it for you.

---

Are you offering a a/c recharge service for beyonders? :D @cancer man

sure why not i received enough help from you guys and i will return the favour.