Probably Low Freon level. Unfortunately, unless it's been retrofitted to R-134a, your '90 Riviera will use R-12 refrigerant and you will have to take it to a Certified AC Mechanic to get it charged up to capacity.
When you try to use the AC with the low refrigerant level, the low pressure switch is tripping...setting a Code (I think 447). By removing the battery cable, you are re-setting the code. NOTE: On a 1990 Riviera, you can just go into the 'Service Mode' on your digital dash and 'Clear' the codes that way...without having to remove the battery cable! Look at Section 6.2 in a Haynes Service Manual for instructions on how to enter Service Mode and get the diagnostic codes.
Posittive first then the negative
To install an AC compressor on a 1995 Buick Riviera with a 3.8L engine, first, disconnect the battery and recover the refrigerant from the AC system. Remove the serpentine belt and disconnect the electrical connectors and refrigerant lines from the old compressor. Install the new compressor by attaching it to the mounting bracket, reconnecting the refrigerant lines, and electrical connectors, then replace the serpentine belt. Finally, recharge the AC system with refrigerant and reconnect the battery.
To replace the AC compressor in a 1999 Grand Prix you must first remove the AC belt. Then disconnect the negative battery cable before removing the compressor bolts and connectors and removing compressor.
The supercharger has no battery.
the battery is located under the rear seat.
To replace the AC compressor on a 1992 Lexus SC300, first, disconnect the negative battery terminal and relieve the AC system pressure. Remove the drive belt, then disconnect the electrical connector and refrigerant lines from the compressor. Unbolt the compressor from its mounting bracket and install the new compressor, reattaching the refrigerant lines and electrical connections. Finally, recharge the AC system with refrigerant and reconnect the battery.
To jump-start a 1999 Buick Riviera, you'll need jumper cables and another vehicle with a functioning battery. First, park the working vehicle close enough for the cables to reach both batteries. Connect the red cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery, then to the positive terminal of the good battery. Next, connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the good battery and attach the other end to a metal ground on the dead vehicle, then start the working vehicle and allow it to charge the dead battery for a few minutes before attempting to start the Riviera.
Check you battery
Under the back seat
under rear seat
The battery is located under the backseat, Lift the seat up and replace the battery.
To remove the air conditioning compressor from a 1988 Toyota Celica, first, disconnect the negative battery terminal and then relieve the refrigerant pressure safely. Next, remove the drive belt from the compressor and disconnect the electrical connections. After that, detach the hoses connected to the compressor, and finally, unbolt the compressor from its mounting bracket. Carefully lift the compressor out of the engine bay.