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My 99 Jeep Cherokee has an A/C that has cooled less and less often over the past 3 years. I recharged the A/C last year, this did not help. Mechanic says there is an issue with an electormagnetic part of the compressor (I am completely car ignorant but from web research, I think he is referring to the AC compressor clutch).

The mecahnic says Jeep does not sell this part separately - I have to buy the whole comopressor. He adds that replacing the compressor also requires one to replace the A/C drier for the part warranty to be any good. Whole job would cost about $1150.

I have found AC Compressors, AC Compressor Clutch and A/C Accumulator/Drier as separate parts online (new or reman.) for $100-$300 each.

1. Where can I find a DIY service manual?
2. Can I get away with replacing just the AC Compressor Clutch, if this is indeed the issue (I plan to call mechanic back to verify).
3. For someone who has almost no auto experience but does have a history servicing computers - how bad of an idea is it to attempt home repair on this part?

Thank you much for any info/insight anyone can provide.  

Also, my signals and hazard lights only work intermittently (this is a new problem) and I'd love to find out suggestions of the cause.

And what I *** is a plastic directional flap in the A/C venting sounds like its popped off a hinge. This happened once before while still under warranty. They fixed it, but it happened again out of warranty. I'm wondering if this could causing undue pressure that could have any affect on the A/C clutch now not working. Doesn't seem likely, but I'd hate to have this be a recurring issue from something as simple as a flap in a vent.  

It's not worth changing just the clutch... almost as much money as just buying the combined compressor/clutch. Try googling: jeepair.com. they are a great family run business in florida...they sell only AC stuff and have excellent internet service...and instructions on the web page. Parts arrived in 3 days, well packed and compressor is already filled with proper AC oil and capped. I did this job last fall.Changed the dryer, compressor/clutch for around $250. You will first need to take it to a ac place to drain the residual coolant. Don't vent to the atmosphere please! I paid $25 to a tech on a slow sunday morning to pull out the old coolant. Took 20 min. The job is easy, but you need to buy the $12 special tools for uncoupling the coolant lines. Jeepair sells them too. The whole job took about 3 hours. Good luck.
Mark