Off topic, sorry, but need help with automotive A/C system repair

[767Jockey]

Sorry for the off topic post, but there’s so much knowledge and talent on here I thought I’d give this a shot. I’m starting life over after a divorce down here in Houston (Kingwood, to be exact), and can’t spend a whole lot on a new car. I ended up buying a high mileage 1996 Grand Cherokee Limited with a V8 engine. Problem is, the A/C doesn’t work. It clearly needs a compressor, as it’s making a racket when turned on. I have been told that it will need a receiver/dryer any time the compressor is replaced as well. I was hoping to do the compressor and receiver dryer myself, and then get the thing flushed out and re-charged. I readily admit that I know little about A/C, except that it’s horrendously expensive to get it repaired, hence the self repair attempt. I did get some ideas about getting it repaired down here, and all agree that by the time I’m done it will be well north of $1K. I just can’t do that now. The parts are about $350 for the compressor and receiver dryer. Anyone with experience or knowledge in this area, I would really appreciate your input. What is the least expensive way for me to get this repair done? I can easily do the bolt on for the compressor. How difficult is the receiver dryer to do? If you’d rather PM me that’s fine too. Thanks.