Last observation guys. The compressor cuts out...doesn't reengage (that doesn't look right) until I turn the controller on the dash off..then back on . and sometimes that won't work imediately, I have to wait 30 or so seconds after I turn it off to turn it back on effectively.

Your pressures look good. The low side might be a little low if its still R12.

The pressures are probably not your problem. The fact that it takes recycling the key may not mean anything other than to say that is probably a controlller issue. I would say that that is the way the comressor controller works though. If it sees a engine problem, probably only voltage or rpm on your car, it shuts down untill the key is cycled.

been there, done that. there's a host of possibilities associated
to this kind of problem. from belt slippage all the way to the
pushbutton control unit. my problem was caused by a loose
wire connection located atop the compressor.

Did you check the evap temperature sensor? A bad sensor would cause the same problem that you are describing.

Vinamg

Yes and thanks for the reply. The tech just replaced the ev. sensor and there was no benefit.