My '79 a/c compressor is shot-How much should I spend on replacement-I live in a hot area and a/c is a must.

 

You should look into a rotary-type compressor replacement from Performance Aire or Griffiths.

 

First, find out what, exactly, is "shot". Could be something as simple as the thermostatically operated switch that engages the A/C compressor electric clutch as the evaporator warms due to liquid refrigerant exhaustion.

High current switch in a magnetic (kick-back) circuit, more than enough time/cycles for it to fail. Mounted integral to the cooling adjust **** with a capillary tube going off to the evaporator.

 

You might find some useful a/c info here;

<a href="http://forums.pelicanparts.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=61620" target="_blank">http://forums.pelicanparts.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=61620</a>