"Peter" wrote in message
...

Bryant Air Conditioner 24000 btu split system - R-22.

I would like to read the charge on this system. I have
the manifold gauge set and located the shraeder valve
outputs for both sides.

Do you have an EPA card?

The shraeder valve seems to be tapped off the side
of a regular valve... Am I correct in assuming this is
the service valve which needs to be opened in order
to read the pressure. This might be a dumb question
but the valve seems to be closed pretty tightly and I
don't want to take a chance on destroying anything.
No handle on the valve...so I'm just trying to get a
"yes, this is the valve you open" or "No, don't
touch that valve..try this approach instead" answer.

I won't give suggestions. That could possibly open me up to a lawsuit.

So, connect the gauge.... open the valve using a
wrench and read appropriate pressures...is this correct ???

If you say so.

Also what pressures should there be ? Someone mentioned
a low head pressure of around 200 would be normal while measuring
a 20 degree temperature drop at a vent. Also low pressure side should
measure about 55 -65.

Pressures ain't squat. You need to look at the superheat and subcooling.

Can anyone recommend a good online site for home a/c maintenance
and repair tutorials ?? All my google searchs have been disappointing.

No recommendations.

Thanks in advance.....

You're welcome.

Peter

You really should be satisfied with measuring the temp drop across the coil.
That won't get you hurt either, most likely.