I would suspect low freon - just because of its chequered past, and because it does attempt to start compressing, and then gives up (most likely because of low pressure). Your system does use R12 and if I were you, I would stick with it. Before you have somebody add freon, check it for leaks - just in case the previous owner added dye to it - if you have a leak, hopefully it will show.

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It is a truism that almost any sect, cult, or religion will legislate its creed into law if it acquires the political power to do so. Robert A. Heinlein


09 Jetta TDI
1985 300D