Is it okay to disconnect my AC without checking whether or not it still has R12?
 

I'm trying to lift the motor/transmission, and I need to disconnect the AC. Do I need to do anything special if it still has R12? What are the consequences of just releasing R12 into the air? Is there an easy way to collect it?

The Apocalipse per some, nothing per most.

No home method of collection.

if you contact a contractor, you can get a disposable reclaim jug that you can evacuate, then chill with dry ice, or salt/ice mix, and get MOST of the 12 collected, then the "deminimus" can be vented... it's BEST to use a reclaimer to collect ALL the 12 (if not for the EPA, THAT STUFF IS EXPENSIVE, and you already own it) I got one off craigslist for 25.00 with a few extra tools. if you are nearby, I can reclaim it for you, and save you the trouble...

if you have an old refrigerator, you can use the compressor/condenser setup to reclaim the 12... also, you can rig those oilless air compressors to reclaim down to 5psi...

Refrigeration Gage's and reclaimer
here's a set, those gauges are over 150 each the reclaimer is around 300 new. make an offer

Yellow Jacket R60 Oil Less Refrigerant Reclaimer and ServiceFirst Recl
here's one asking $150

How would I evacuate the stuff into a reclaim jug? Do they give those containers away for free? Probably not... :)

Oops, I just saw your other posts...

here's a $200 reuseable reclaim cylinder
Freon Refrigerant Recovery Reclaim Cylinder Tank
he is asking $60 and ANY HVAC contractor could exchange it for a new one.

Thank you!

Unfortunately, that's too much for me :(. What is the R12 in a fully charged system (assuming mine is) worth?

here's a jug of 12 with about 11lbs in it for $150
R-12 Refrigerant

here's an R12 "recharge kit" with a 14oz can of 12 in it.
R12 recharge kit-new

...so how many pounds would my system have in it?

here is an HVAC company going out of business with lots of 134 and R22 tanks for sale, also some reclaimers and such in fitchburg
Appliance repair business closing

3ish

here's a moron selling Freeze 12 as R12...
30lb bottle of R12 refrigerant
I sent him an email explaining the difference, and I'm flagging his ad. I recommend you all do the same.
some poor soul is going to buy this thinking it's R12