89 240 GL with original compressor running old freon. It's been a year since I added a can of freon and I can tell it's low again. This got me to thinking that maybe it was finally time to convert to R135a. I noticed I have a leak on the hose crossing the front of the condenser coming out of the baffle cone. My Volvo mechanic recommended that in addition to replacing that hose, I go the extra mile and replace the compressor ($424) when I convert as he said his experience shows the old compressors can't keep up with the higher temps/pressures of the new R135a. This sounds like it is going to turn into a very expensive fix. Though we are heading into winter here is SC, I gotta have A/C come next spring. Now I'm thinking, maybe I should replace the hose, put in more freon and keep the old compressor. Or how about replace the hose, install conversion kit with R135a and take my chances with the old compressor. Or how about replace the hose and try out the duracool product Freeze12. Any A/C warriors out there have any advice about my situation.

Thanks,
Luke Charleston, SC