Keith - I reinstalled and rebuild all the components myself. Replaced the hoses, resealed the original A6 compressor, rebuild the STV (freeze protection valve), installed new dryer and replaced all o-rings. I decided to stay with R12 for refrigerant as I have access to it and after a lot of reading from this and other forums, it should be colder and leak less than 134a.
I considered having most of this done but when I was quoted $1500 -$2000 for all of this, I decided to do it myself and see how it goes.
its all mechanically reassembled now, just need to solve this vacuum hose connection issue, then evacuate the system and see if it holds vacuum, then proceed to recharge and check for leaks. Wish me luck
phil