The whole point of converting to R134 is that R12 is going to get more expensive and difficult to find in the future, and is actually illegal in some locations. A one-year fix is one thing, but the a long-term keeper should probably be converted.

Zoni -

I don't know what your mechanical competence is, but to change the compressor, manifold hose, expansion valve, and drier/switches is not rocket science. You can do this yourself and then take it to a good AC shop for flushing and charging.

Good luck.

Chuck