Upgrade / Change / Fix Factory Air? *HELP*

[Stocker]

Guys I am so lost on this, it ain't funny. I have been reading a lot of threads and have only become more confused. Looking for advice from members who have revived their non-working factory A/C systems, or any others familiar with the procedure.

Here's my situation. A/C was working fine several years ago and the compressor's front seal failed, so the freon leaked out. Been dead ever since and I'd like to revive it. It will require new components -- I have been told that everything needs to be replaced. I have also been told I'll need to go with an aftermarket kit, and the firewall will have to be modified. Doesn't sound like what I want to do. Dunno if the stock vents etc can still be used inside the cab, but I hope so. In fact, I'd prefer to keep the basic stock configuration, in the cab and under the hood, even though the compressor and other parts will look somewhat different.

Any help & advice is much appreciated. Thanks, guys.