You are obviously in a bind. As you say, you aren't handy, therefore the high cost is because it has to be taken to a mechanic.

On the other hand, you wrote:
"We also have a 1990 240 with 200,000 - it's in better shape and we are in our 14th year and love it. My 18 year son started driving it last year because my wife wanted to drive the 1989 blue one with a/c. Now the air is out and it is having other problems and my son won't trade her back."

Unless your son is also your boss, you should be motivating the kid to start repairing the rides if you plan on keeping them. If you can't do that, then sell to someone who appreciates them enough to work on them.

The '89 and up 240's are well rust proofed and designed to last longer than most cars on the road today. And cheaply maintained by a DIYer. There should be interested buyers.
--
1980 245 Canadian B21A with SU carb but electronic ignition and M46 trans in Brampton, Ont.