Machine not cooling.

[Pixel]

My Choice Vend machine won't cool. When I plug it in, the compressor kicks on and turns, but it won't cool the system. It seems to be trying (air moving throught the back of the vend area is only slightly cooler than surrounding air - this was outside during the summer, when it was still quite warm out.)

I've been told that it's probably needing freon, possibly lost from leakage.

Is there anything else I can check?

I shudder at the thought it might need freon - R12 is almost impossible to get and outrageously expensive. If it needs freon for a solid fact, can anyone here reccommend an acceptable substitute?

[Jim]

Pixel,

Was the unit cooling and recently stopped...?

[Pixel]

Hi, Jim. Thanks for your response.

I acquired this machine this way.

I forgot to mention it, but the thermostat is set on 7, which I think is the max for this machine.

Here is what the badge right in front of the coil says about the compressor, best I can tell:

Type: 1
HP: 1/8
Refrigerant: R-12 (9 oz.)