I was able to get a cylinder of R-22 and the right manifold and hoses and finally it was good enough weather to check out the system. Not good! First, the fan on the condenser wouldn't start on it's own but a little push with a screwdriver got it spinning. The bearings seem OK so I suspect the capacitor. Next, the compressor won't start, it just hums for a while then goes quiet then repeats. Hmmmm. The static pressure on the refrigerant is 110 psi on both sides at 70 degrees F ambient.
So, I assume the worst on this 15 yo Trane and it won't be worth fixing. At this point I call in a professional, a nephew of a friend on mine and see what he thinks. I'm a heat baby and like the house at
67 and my bedroom at 60 or less...I have a modified window unit for that. The house is all-electric and very well insulated, my largest electric bills are