Stick with the R12, I just bought a bunch for ~$14 per pound (16oz) not the $10 12oz cans at the local auto parts store. Sure it was 30lbs but heck, look at all the vehicles that run R12 I own... it was a no brainer to me.

I would put some gauges on it to see how the pressures are currently, compressor could be lame for all we know. Once you do that, I'd also see if you have any leaks anywhere. There is some goop that works well I've seen over on AC kits.com that seems to be good bang for the buck.

Cracking it open isn't that big of a deal, just budget most of the day to get new o-rings everywhere and install a new dryer.

Flush it while it's apart, evac it. Then charge. Not too big of an ordeal as it seems.

__________________
I'm not a doctor, but I'll have a look.

'85 300SD 245k
'87 300SDL 251k
'90 300SEL 326k

Six others from BMW, GM, and Ford.

Liberty will not descend to a people; a people must raise themselves to liberty.[/IMG]