Hi, I was wondering if it's difficult to charge the A/C on a 98 XJR? Can I charge it with a charging kit purchased from a typical auto parts store or does it need to be taken to a shop?

Thanks!

 

Steve, these are a sophisticated system and not to be messed around with.
There is no point in doing half the job and these el cheepo methods do not succesfully work.
Take it to an A/C specialist who will evacuate the system (it's illegal to discharge refrigerant into the atmosphere), check for leaks, add new refrigerant, leak detection dye and PAG oil (to lubricate the cpmpressor).....all in one action.
If it has never been done before, the receiver/dryer ubit should also be replaced.....that's the alloy cylindrical gizmo down in front of the air cleaner box...they are not expensive if bought from outside suppliers like Rock Auto etc.
Have the system checked and recharged properly, it will last for about six years.
Not forgetting that the biggest killer of these systems is lack of use...they should be operated at least once a week for 10 minutes to circulate oil...preferablu all year round as contrary to popular belief, these modern systems do not suck horsepower liike the older systems.
When you use kickdown or hard acceleration, the A/C automatically disconnects and when normal speeds are attained, the system resumes as before.
Go it one....do it right ;o)