If you don't let it get real low you can recharge r134 yourself. Guages are cheap ($15) and a can of r134 is around $4..... and it's very simple. Obviously it's better to fix it but the cost is quite high.

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1985 300D Turbo ~225k
2000 F350 (Powerstroke) 4X4, SWB, CC, SRW, 6spd ~148k
1999 International 4900, DT466e (250hp/660 ft/lbs), Allison MD3060 ~73k