It's perfectly safe to remove your gauges from the AC system. They should be pulled off with the vacuum pump still running. And immediately put the caps back on the valves. That's what they are for, to prevent leaks.
if you don't have caps then before you start you need to get some.

In fact it's recommended to pull the gauges off and let it sit for a while to test for leaks. Preferably overnight, to see if the vacuum holds.

Also when charging you must purge your lines of air! Very important.


Danny

__________________
1984 300SD Turbo Diesel 150,000 miles

OBK member #23

(\__/)
(='.'=) This is Bunny. Copy and paste bunny into your
(")_(") signature to help him gain world domination