Here's why it's complicated and what you should consider:
* Finding the Leak: Before recharging, you *must* find and repair any leaks in the system. Simply adding refrigerant will only temporarily fix the problem and you'll likely lose the refrigerant quickly, wasting money and potentially damaging the compressor. A leak detection dye is often used for this.
* Vacuuming the System: Before adding refrigerant, the system needs to be thoroughly evacuated (a vacuum pump removes air and moisture). Moisture in the system can severely damage the compressor.
* Correct Refrigerant Amount: Adding too much or too little refrigerant can damage the compressor. You need accurate scales to measure the refrigerant charge. Overcharging is very common among DIY attempts.
* Safety Precautions: Refrigerant is under high pressure and can cause serious injury if mishandled. Eye protection, gloves, and proper ventilation are essential.
Recommendation: Unless you are experienced in automotive air conditioning repair, it's strongly recommended to take your Avalanche to a qualified mechanic or AC specialist. The cost of a professional repair is likely less than the cost of replacing a compressor due to a DIY mistake.
