ac compressor locked up

[Kevin]

is this something I can tackle myself or do I need to take it to a pro to have them recover the freon?

[scottfab]

is this something I can tackle myself or do I need to take it to a pro to have them recover the freon?

I don't understand "lock up".
Clutch engages but belt just slips in the pulley?

[Kevin]

I don't understand "lock up".
Clutch engages but belt just slips in the pulley?

hit the auto button on the dash, car blows hot air and the belt slips

[VetteMed]

If compressor is seized, it is possible that the system is still charged, and yes, would require proper recovery of the R12 at a shop.

Once that's recovered, it's not a terrible job to swap the compressor; but the plenum must be removed, and the alternator must be unbolted to allow for access to the compressor mounting bolts.

[scottfab]

hit the auto button on the dash, car blows hot air and the belt slips

Yup sounds familiar. As far as what to do with "freon", that's your decision. Maybe you can find a place that will remove it quid pro quo. I mean they get the gas free after all. I'm not sure if there is a hit for AC work on this forum under Solutions yet.
There is some A/C help on this page. I did the swap over to R134 about 11yrs ago.
http://www.zr1netregistry.com/ZR1_howto.htm