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Five will get you ten you have a low system charge. I will also disagree with replacing the accumulator, as it should have been changed out when the system was converted to R134A. Additionally, you can also purchase "leak find" products that you introduce into the system. This way you can charge the system, and should it turn out you have a major leak it will be easier to spot. In the old days with R12, the compressor oil used would show leaks fairly easily, evident by the oily residue left at line joints, compressor front hub, etc... However, the compressor oils used with R134A are water solueable and the residues tend to disappear fairly quickly. This also brings up another point, and that is if your system has run very low you'll ideally want to introduce some compressor oil with your recharge. Some of the kits include this or package the oil with the refrigerant.
I will agree with getting appropriate gauges, especially with an R134A conversion. It's pretty critical to get the system properly balanced. Typically, you're looking for low-side pressures of 25 to 30 psi, and high-side pressures of 150-175, sometimes running up to 200, but ambient temperatures play a part in all this. You'll want lower high-side pressures if charging on a cool (let's says 80 degree) day, as the pressure will increase as system demand increases.
But, if all you can get is a low-side gauge you should be able to get the system to work fairly well. Note that Volvo compressors have a proclivity to blow out the front compressor seal. Finally, inspect the condensor (what looks like a radiator in front of your radiator) and clean it if it's dirty. Condensors are oft overlooked, and a dirty condensor will have an enormous impact on your system efficiency.
Richard in KS
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86 740T/87 745GLE
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