had to change the compressor.
added oil, and refrigerant.
everything is in the blue or green depending on what gauges you own.
compressor kicks on
fan kicks on
air does not cool or rather the air is not very cold.

one thing I was wondering is if I should relieve pressure from the high end to allow better circulation since it has all new refrigerant?

 

Likely the expansion valve needs replacing. Everything can look fine but no cooling. This has been my experience.

Also I would recommend a professional charge... someone w/the proper gauges that can determine whether the charge is correct or not. Should only cost around $40.

 

Where is the expansion valve on a 2000 mazda protege?