Nissan Repair: Nissan Air Conditioner, air conditioner compressor, receiver dryer

Question
I have a 96 Pathfinder, that I just got and found out the the air conditioner compressor is siezed. Is this something I can fix, or replace myself? I'm fairly handy fixing my cars but have never tackled anything in the A/C!

Answer
Lara,

Technically, you have to get the system evacuated first.  An airconditoner shop will do this for cheap.  Then, replace the compressor, the receiver dryer and take the vehicle back to the airconditioner shop for an evacuation and charge.  The receiver dryer has to be replaced since any metal that the compressor might have shelled into the system ends up in the receiver dryer.  If you do not replace it the compressor will not be covered under warranty and the metal could make its way back to the new compressor and damage it.