refrigerant

[chris.miller at infofoundry.com (Miller, Chris)]

 I've got four new cans of R12 here that I've been thinking to sell.
EPA requires that it be sold to a licensed installer, or a reseller to
one (such as your mechanic).  Pulled the compressor etc. from the
Scirocco long ago.

I'm hesitant to just toss in an alternative refrigerant; most places
doing A/C work would be very unlikely to help you out if they know
you're not running r12 or r134a due to potential contaminantion issues
and the costs (contaminated equipment, recycled refrigerant that now
can't be reused and must be disposed for $$$).  If you go the alternate
route, follow the rules, and label the system, plus change fittings as
needed.

As far as towing; I've towed a utility trailer with a heavy motorcycle
on it with my old '78 with the 4 speed and 1.5l; later took the bike
apart, filled the car with everything I owned and the bike, then put a
huge pile of stuff on top, and drove it some 800 miles away.  Couldn't
make the hills all that well, but those little motors really can take
some abuse, if you keep the oil clean and watch the coolant temps.

Chris in MA