I am almost 100% positive at this point that the pushbutton unit and the monovalve are intact. Unscrewing the monovalve and observing it engage/disengage as I press A/C on and off makes me assume the monovalve and pb unit are OK.

Im not so sure about the compressor. Yes it turns on when the low pressure switch is jumped, but does this mean the compressor is ok? Not sure.

I do know that there is no refrigerant in the check window, and I have gone thru the check process of disconnecting the low pressure switch, starting and idling the car, then reconnecting and looking at the window for rising fluid.

So I am going to go with low refrigerant due to a system leak and try and get it vacuum tested at a shop. If it is a leak then I have a feeling I am screwed because the evaporator is the culprit so often, and I hear it is a ridiculous amount to replace.

Thanks all for the help.