I need the air conditioner hoses replaced on my 73 450sl. I have had 3 estimates: $800.00 from a recommended air conditioning shop; $1,700 from a good British car mechanic, who says he'd only replace with new MB hoses and fittings; and $875.00 from a Mercedes mechanic, who says he has 10 year old OEM Mercedes hose that isn't made anymore, which he can install using my present fittings. I'm concerned with deterioration of hose after 10 years, but he says the hose is superior to anything made now.

Has anyone had any experience with these things, or any advice?

Also, the Mercedes mechanic says installing one of the hoses requires the steering wheel to be taken off, and the speedometer removed. Is this true?