Instead of trying to do it yourself, take your Ford Probe to a qualified mechanic or an automotive air conditioning specialist. They have the necessary tools, including:
* Refrigerant recovery and recycling machine: This machine safely removes the existing refrigerant from the system, allowing it to be cleaned and reused or properly disposed of. This is crucial for environmental reasons and to avoid damaging the compressor.
* Vacuum pump: This evacuates the system of air and moisture before adding new refrigerant. Moisture in the system can severely damage the components.
* Manifold gauge set: This measures the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant to ensure the system is properly charged.
* Appropriate refrigerant: The type of refrigerant used depends on the year of your Ford Probe. Using the incorrect refrigerant can damage the system.
The mechanic will diagnose the problem (it might not just be a low refrigerant charge; there could be leaks or other issues) and then properly recharge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant and oil. This ensures your AC works efficiently and safely. Getting a professional diagnosis will save you money and prevent more costly repairs in the long run.