You would need equipment for it, probably not worth purchasing. Probably best to have a shop do it if you don't have access to the equipment. Just make sure they run vacuum for at least 30 min, that's how long it takes to burn off the moisture, contaminants and residual refrigerant.

 

Here is a couple of videos I made explaining the gauges and connections.

1986 Jaguar XJ6 A/C - YouTube

manifold gauge set up - YouTube

 

Wow, thanks so much for taking the time to do that, mickh78! Definitely gives me a much better idea of what's involved.

 

Well I was looking at my '83 XJ's AC plumbing. I don't think mine has a fitting near the expansion valve. I, however, see something that looks like an AC fitting along one of the lines attached to the chassis brace that goes over the engine bay on the passenger (right) side.