@Dropped88 you nailed it!! That was the problem!! Thank you so much for your post and help!
While I did check the new orifice tube while putting this all together, later when I was fighting hooking up the lines I didn't think about it because I'm kind of used to the O-tube being back near the firewall. The new lines were not fitting up well at all, and in trying to get them properly bent and aligned and hooked up, YEP, I got them backwards and consequently the O-tube not at the right point in the system.
GOOD CATCH Dropped88!! Thanks again. You know, I researched the problem for hours, and posted in no less than five forums. You were the only one to nail it. I'm embarrassed here, but way happy to find the problem. (Note that some said "check the plumbing" which was also correct, but he nailed it dead on.)
I was tearing my hair out, so I can't thank you enough! (Hey, been doing this mechanic stuff for 55 years, so I don't have much hair left to pull out!)
God, now I've got to dig into malfunctioning HVAC doors. Probably all three actuators. I really, really hate interior and dash work...
THANKS!!
Vettepilot