Yes it does matter what side the discharge is on. If you do not want to run a new idler pulley on a YJ w/o a/c, the compress will be layed on it's side. In order for this to happen and the york to work properly, the Suction needs to be on the top. this would also be called a left discharge model.
As for the fitting, I got mine at a local napa. They had to get them shipped up from conn. or some thing but only took two days and cost $15 and some change. The part # is 202113 and come with new gaskets.
I Just happen to be at the Junk Yard today (looking for a pass side directional for a 88 omni) and saw a couple of Yorks. I Finally spotted a good 8.8 in a 97 explorer, but I didn't have any tools with me so I have to go back next week, I will see if I can find some more Yorks!!
As for fittings, and stuff. The cheapest hose I found is 3/8 fuel hose, and it will with-stand the pressure. I chose 3/8 copper lines, only $10 for 20ft at Lowes. A friend of mine works at a plumbing supply house and I got all my compression fittings, pressure guauge, check valve, and other random stuff for free. I got a Mini Air filter for the intake (suction side) and also a air dryer along with a fuel line at autozone for short cash (alot cheaper than OBA is) The only thing I had to get from kilby was the bracket (too damn cold to stay out side to make one) a 12 volt pressure switch, and a emergancy pressure release valve (in hind sight I thing ww grainger sells them.)