anybody replaced AC compressorfront seals?

[jwhughes3]

In an 86 300E? Mine was cooling fine through the warm Winter and Spring - then as temps hit 90's a while ago - seemed like best I could do was mid 70's-80 at the vent even on highway. In the cool mornings when it is 70 I can hit vent temps of 65.

Checked for low 134a - not low - took in for AC check - they tell me $1100 for new compressor, drier and exp valve stuck open - I said I'll pick up as is.

Picked it up and have vent temps of 58-62 idling in afternoon and as low as 48 with low fan in shade with outside temp 80. That is normal vent temps to me - so what gives? How did they magically "fix" it without fixing it?

I had UV dye in it and will be checking for front seal leak as described when I have a chance to find my light.

I figure if I have to (for $1100) I can do the exp valve, flush, drier, vac and recharge myself - compressor is fine - can I buy just the front seal and replace it? Special tools or knowledge required?

John in San Antonio