AC problem

[Lagon78]

So I'm trying to fix the AC so I can sell my 97 ranger and purchase a newer, 2003 ranger from a nearby neighbor. He said he would hold his ranger for a week.

Down to business then.
The car blows hot air all the time, regardless of the temperature setting. I'm aware that either the blend door or blend door actuator are causing the air constantly blowing from the vents. My question is why doesn't the temperature change? Does it just need recharging, or could there be a bigger problem? Temperature to me seems like it just needs to be charged. I don't care right now if it's a choice between maxed AC or maxed heat. I'll worry about that later. My main question is, as a teen with limited resources who isn't willing to pay someone to troubleshoot it, is there an easy way to troubleshoot the temperature issue? Thanks.

 

[TxGasRacer]

http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/index-heating.shtml

 

[tac1015]

Does the heater valve in the engine compartment open and close when the temp switch in the dash in changed? Close the heater valve manually by closing it with you hand and see if the temp changes.

 

[Slammin Sam]

With the AC on max does the compressor run? If not, that's your culprit. Could be a bad compressor, could just need a charge.