There is indeed the need for special equipment, but there is also a need for special knowledge. If you decide to take it on, I strongly recommend getting a good book and do some studying. You can get a good book for about $15 at www.ackits.com.

The equipment you will need will be a gauge manifold set for your car. You will need one set for R12/22/502 and a different set for R134a. There are products available to let you convert one to the other, but you should not mix them.

You will also need a vacuum pump. You can get a commercial one or make one from an old refrigerator compressor. Don't try using a venturi unit.

You will also need some various other tools and items such as a vent thermometer.

I have been around auto a/c since my Dad went to a three day course and then started installing and servicing auto air conditioners in his independent auto repair shop in 1957. If you don't know what you're doing you can damage systems and even injure yourself.

It's a good skill to learn, but approach it dilligently and carefully. If you do, it can be rewarding.

Hope this helps,