Larry - thanks for your insights. If I had not already spent $1,000 on the ac manifold and other hoses, it would be easier to take.

ACs are a weak link in all vehicles. Since they need constant attending when they get older, that is why I would convert to R134. At least I can do the work myself. For the cost of one repair, you can outfit yourself decently with the equipment and it would pay for itself when you have 2 or more cars in the family. If you hand onto your vehicles like I do, it would pay for itself.

Thanks again - Ron