2001 Rx300 Ac Issues And Confused!

[PJRX300]

I have found so much great info on this site that saved quite a few dollars but am now completely stuck and asking for some guidance.

Our rx300 as is out - we knew this when it was purchased from a family member.

It's getting warm and I wanted to tackle the issue. We took it to our local shop for advice earlier this week. He recharged the system and added a dye to see if anything was leaking. I knew it was but he wanted to spot the location. His verdict was a leak next to the compressor and that would need to be replaced. Off to another shop that has helped out in the past and has knowledgable budget friendly labor and they said it was a condenser that needed to be replaced.

We love the vehicle but either solution was quoted about a grand and I can't justify the luxury of ac for that amount - definitely if I am pouring money into the wrong parts.

So the question is - and please let me know if my searches were off and I missed the topic - is this job possible over a weekend if I purchase both items? Any way to narrow down the problem while keeping the vehicle driveable?

I appreciate all your time and advice!

PJ