need a lesson in A/C

Pete in NH said

You need a 609 certification to buy R12. You can get a 609 certificate relatively easy and then legally buy R-12.

Click to expand...

Yep,
Just dusted off My Old MACS cert... dated '92, still valid :D & blew the dust of My Memory
CD... LOL

That being said, The RV'2's came in three (3) configs, uniquely categorized
by the 'oil pan' on the compressor bottom, no other changes.
1) Square, 4 oz 'sump'
2) Rounded corner, (driver side) 4.1 oz 'sump'
3) Middle deep--- 4 oz 'sump' .

All of the above 'pan' configs were modified simply for 'fitment',...
Ok enough of that.
P.s, there is a plug on the right lower RV2 housing
which when removed(0 vacuum,open system) allows 'oil' to be checked...
3" piece of Your favorite wire with an obligatory handle :D.
Checking oil condition may help with a $ decision.

I am just guessing (based on the limited pics) this is an "H" block "EPR" manual control
system, and as the compressor still 'works' when 'jumped',

I vote for this action Link

Me thinks You will be $$$ ahead from an 'alternate' refrigerant conversion...

With Respects, just borrowing a page from Mr Rob's--- GUIDE TO HOT ROD BLISS ---