I took my '01 996 turbo to a local air conditioning service. When I got the diagnosis I was told that I had a leaking condenser coil and the dashboard would have to be taken apart and the cost estimate was "shocking".
Does anyone have any ideas about doing this procedure and for much? I am blown away by the huge cost !
Any suggestions on a more reasonable solution?
Thanks, ccav8r!

In the dashboard (in the Hevac box) would be the evaporator. The condenser(s) sit in front of the radiators.
I have never done a 996 evap replacement, but the evap often requires removing the dash and is relatively labor intensive. This is not the kind of work I would entrust to a generic AC shop tho. They will likely be taking apart their first or second 996 dash and most of the time, they are more interested in getting the job back out the door than doing everything to 100%. Your AC will blow cold, but you will have squeaks and rattles from your dash because wire ties, screws, or padding was left out (the car was over-engineered ) or clips were broken.

Find a reputable indy specializing in Porsches. And have him make sure it is the evap before starting.

Good info from Steve. Agree the evaporator is behind dash and you need someone who has Porsche experience.

I took my dash apart and changed the entire HVAC unit due to the foam deteriorating and coming out of the vents. It was a very tedious job and not one I would trust to very many. If you do pull it out, be prepared to find your foam deteriorated and be prepared to replace the whole unit. I got a great deal on a unit from a salvage on EBay. Good luck!