I am about to undertake the exact same task with my V8 converted wagon here in Maryland.

You will at least need a qualified shop to recover the R12.

I imagine that we will need access to several "not in the box" connectors so i was not going to do my own recharge. I figure that I can pay someone else to check the system for leaks and get it converted and working properly than for me to do it and then have ot take it somewhere anyway :-)

My A/C system is in place but is empty and untested.

Let me know if you get any good information. I will do the same.

Thanks,
Ed