Air Conditioner Question

I'm trying to debug a problem with the AC on a Lexus LX450 (Toyota Landcruiser). On a hot day, the AC starts out cold; after some time, it stops putting out cold air. I noticed that the low side is in correct range, but the high side was somewhat high. There are 3 ports on the compressor: 1 fit the low side, 2 fit the high side hose. Why are there

2 high side ports (one pointed up, one pointed down)? Which one should I use?

How do I check the compressor's oil on this type of car? What is a best way to clean the condensor? Thanks for any advise.

Thi

P.S. I read somewhere that people use a refrig compressor and convert it to a vacumm pump. If you know some info, please point me to it. Thanks.

It would seem either would be adequate. WHich ever is most convienient.

Take the compressor off and empty out the oil.

I use a small stiff wire to pry out the pebbles and bug remains one by one. A wire brush (I kind of like the ones shaped like giant toothbrushes) works if you don't push too hard.

You're welcome. :)

Basically you just affix a plumbing adapter that would turn the suction side line into a 1/4" flare fitting. Then screw an r-134a adapter to it... Viola! Won't last long but it's a very small fraction of the cost of a regular vacuum pump.

That being said, a compressor of any type will not be able to pull a vacuum deep enough to be proper for an auto system. It would be better than nothing, but not even close to what it's supposed to be. It won't boil off any liquid moisture that might have gotten in the system. If you use a compressor as a vacuum pump you should replace the dryer / accumulator as well.

If you aren't going to be using a proper vacuum pump then don't use compressed air to flush the system. That will add liquid moisture. About a couple hundred drops and the dryer will be saturated and need to be replaced again.