nitrogen

On the way home from vegas last weekend the clutch on the ac compressor broke off.
I looked at it and it looks like the shaft that holds the clutch is gone too.
my question is, what does replacing the compressor entail. I have called the dealer and
they told me anywhere from 700-1500 to fix it.. I know i can change out the compressor,
but I dont know about getting into freon and all that ----.. So if anyone knows about this
and could tell me if i can just replace the compressor like an alternator or if i have to get into
the system. I would really appreciate it. The temps down here in phoenix are right around 110.
and i cant survive without ac.

eaglekper0046

At the most Id say the freeon would be between $50-75, but prices are rising In the store its about $10 a can.