A/C Quandry -- re-post from DD

[Abner Mality]

My A/C has lost its charge. I am 80 miles from my trusted indy Benz mechanic. Serious illness of a close friend precludes my having the full day it would require to drive the distance and wait around to have my unit serviced. I have read many threads from my search, here, and am totally confused.
There is a trustworthy mechanic just up the road from me who says he can charge the system with R-12, R-12 oil, and check and repair any leaks.
My problem is, will regular R-12 oil work in my 116? I have seen threads regarding mineral oil as a lubricant. I can't afford to screw up a compressor, and don't want to come off as a know-it-all when I explain to this local tech how to properly charge my system.
Please help.
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