no, losing the manual would not cause the car to use freon.
Compressor not running, blown fuse, low of freon.
If the A/C system is empty the compressor will not turn until you get enough refrigerant in it. Just turn on the A/C and hook up your can of freon. Once the freon starts filling the system the A/C clutch will engage.
THERE IS NO FREON IN A 98 IT IS R134
R134a
R134a
R134a
R134a
R-134a kit
R134a
R134a
R134a
R 12