[johnnyhal]

I'm pulling my 2.3L engine, and I need to either a) decompress the air conditioning system and remove the air compressor completely or b) unbolt it from the engine so it's not in the way when I pull it out, leaving the system intact.

Doing b isn't a problem, but I'd rather take the whole thing off. The belt to run the compressor was disconnected when I got it... I'm willing to bet it doesn't even work anymore.... or there's problems elsewhere, requiring me to take do the latter anyway.

I see that there are two release valves (I'm assuming that's what they are... they look like tire valve stems) on the lines running to and from the air compressor. I also know that it's dangerous working with refrigerant... how can I decompress the system and remove the refrigerant?

I guess I should mention I don't want to put pieces back on this thing just to drive it to a service station and have them do it for me. Am I SOL?

[Turbo RANGER]

Firstly, check the schrader valves to see if there is even any refrigerant in the system. Those are the two tire valves you saw. Take a pocket screwdriver or knife and depress the little pin sticking up(after you take the cap off of course). If it hisses, the system is still partially charged. If no, then just take apart all the connections and remove any pieces you have to. Just be sure to cap any and all lines you disconnect(both sides of the connection) to avoid getting water and debris in the evaporator or condenser. Now if it hisses, just take the core out of a schrader valve and leave for a few minutes. It will release some R12 or R134(depending on if it has been converted), but not enough to hurt anything(2 lbs. max). After you come back, reinstall the schrader valve core, and take apart the system like mentioned above. Oh, and one last thing, be very careful not to get any refrigerant(R12 or R134) on your skin or in your eyes. One drop will blind you.