How to disconnect (not delete) AC?

[87CutlassSupremeBrougham]

I just want to remove the pump but leave the rest of the equipment. How can I disconnect and cap it off at the compressor?

 

[melloelky]

have the system evacuated by a shop and you can unbolt as you please.

 

[Clone TIE Pilot]

Yep, have a shop evacuate the system as it's illegal to vent to atmosphere.

 

[08Malibu]

Yep, have a shop evacuate the system as it's illegal to vent to atmosphere.

It’s also extremely messy. Had a guy at one of my shops make a huge mess. He had a car with a hole in the condenser, so he just popped the hose off the compressor with an impact. Unfortunately the hole didn’t go all the way through, so all the refrigerant and oil, shot out into the shop and all over the car. Huge mess. Also dangerous to breathe in.