Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum

The low-side pressures aren't too bad, but the high side is far too high, pointing to a condensing problem.

I would attack this problem from two fronts:
1. Replace the fan, check that nothing is obstructing airflow through the condenser, and that all foam seals and shrouds are in place. (The water ...

Springlock Connectors aren't reliable IMHO, but they ARE cheap, appealing to corporate "bean counters." Instead of replacing the lines again, a clamp as described in the previous post helps solve the problem of the connector suddenly coming apart under pressure.

I'd also consider replacing the ...

I was afraid that you might not be able to remove the compressor with the studs in the way.

The oil is a question mark. If you can't get it all in the compressor, you'll have to "oil-balance" the system--that is, ~1.5 ounces in the evaporator, ~1.5 ounces in the condenser, ~1.5 ounces in the R/D or ...

If, say, the ambient temperature is 65°F, then the low side and high side should read about 30/160 PSI respectively.

An induction heater sounds like a good idea, or an acetylene torch if it's safe to use.

Alternatively, can you get a die grinder in there to grind-off the bolt heads and then use a set of locking pliers to remove the studs after the compressor is out?

Confused about a few things in your post. That said, is 125 PSI the static pressure (engine off, compressor disengaged) that you're reading on the low and high sides?

Have the refrigerant recovered, and then remove the liquid line at the TXV. If you find desiccant beads, then the R/D has disintegrated.

Did you call Tim at ACKits.com to discuss? He might be able to help you.

Why not convert the system to R-134a rather than keeping it R-12, which is extremely expensive and hard to find?

First thing I'd do, as already suggested, is to recover the charge and see what it weighs. If it's low, the system probably has a leak somewhere.

The high pressure seems a bit low to me, further suggesting a low charge.

I'd look up the specs for you, but I'm traveling outside the USA right now and ...

If you're charging by pressures instead of by weight, you've most likely overcharged the system, causing the safety valve to vent refrigerant.