AC diagnosis and repair is tough for amateurs. I've done AC work (residential and vehicle) for decades and still consider myself an amateur.
The systems are complicated, usually involving refrigerant pressure and vacuum, electrical, electronic, computer, and mechanical components. To diagnose and repair requires lots of expensive equipment, and an understanding of how the systems operate.
I suggest you watch some of the "Eric the car guy" videos linked below. These are the best AC videos I know of, and will give you a feel for what is involved in AC work. Good luck.
How to find and repair AC leaks:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95RdGLFIbL8AC system basics: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w17DpGCcRj8