Well, you are new here... but that will be a lesson you remember...
I think you could have gotten that expensive hose rebuilt for under $200...
and you can check on " completed auctions" at Ebay to determine what the real going rate for R12 is...
You search this site and find the place to get your 609 license.. open book, $20... they send it by mail.. then you have a number to give to people you buy the R12 from

Always better to run things by the forum first..
we are a frugal bunch....and hate to see anyone get burned...