You can buy one of those consumer Freon cans with the gauge attachment pump it on the low side and see what your pressures look like, doesn't really lose freon with the quick disconnects

 

So I was out and decided to get one of the simple fill cans with the gauge. The reading was right in the middle of the green (I can’t recall the pressure reading). I still gave it a couple squirts and bumped it up a scoshe (still WELL within the green) and drove home after some errands.

I still think a blend door is wonky because it’s plenty cool and didn’t seem to change much after adding a bit. The rear is still really cold as well. I didn’t get the temp gun out and take any readings, but it’s plenty for the time being.

I’m calling it. Whenever I get to doing the dash and inspect things, I’ll report back to this thread. Thanks for all the input.

 

Oh yeah, forgot to mention, the cooling system must be in really good shape with all the crap I replaced (save the water pump- have a flowkooler in a box for when that is needed) as it would not get over 194 idling at 90F outside and we’re at 7400 feet in elevation.

For the first time I’m thinking the condenser fan can actually help as it’s hot enough out that it kicked on immediately and driving the temp stayed at around 183F. I don’t drive the thing all that much- but I might take it to work a couple times this week for fun- but I’m super impressed. No in line modification, nothing special other than a 180F soft spring t stat and a slightly more aggressive clutch.