R-12 system - no cooling left anymore for over a year. Local mechanic
estimates over a grand to "rebuild and seal" faulty components.

WTF!, this is a 1972 that runs great, except for the AC, and I'm
temporarily unemployed, and don't have that kind of money to invest!

I'm OK with tuneups and brakes , but unfamiliar with air
conditioning. Can anyone help, please.

Thanks, for any suggestions. Pat