Where in So.Cal are you located? I'm in N. OC and have a set of R-12 gauges I would loan out if you need them as AutoZone does. Just a thought.

2002 Dodge Dakota (factory air) Recently I've noticed a reduction of cooling (max low 56 degrees on a 90+ day So. CA) and a knocking sound coming from up near the evaporator or maybe at the bulkhead(I think that is near where the OT is). This sound happens only when the compressor is engaged. Could ...