After reading about a few stories about AC systems 'Black Death' I decided to replace my AC compressor before it broke. Mine has 208K on the odometer and I have a sense that my compressor was on its last legs. So rather than wait for it to blow and throw metal shavings all through my system, I decided it would be best to swap it out now.
I cost me around $350 total when you consider the cost of compressor, drier, and evac/recharge. I figure its good preventative care and a savings in the long run.
Just some food for thought...