97 climate control issues

[ThanksForHelping]

Hello, all! I have a 97 GT that has the heat stuck on and no a/c. You can imagine the discomfort in this heat wave! I believe there are two different problems; the a/c needs charged and maybe the temp. control knob is detached or inoperable. Is it electrical or does it use cables? There is very little tension at the knob. Engine temp. stays well within the normal range. Am I on the right track? Any other suggestions? If you think I'm correct, how do I fix it? Thanks.

[rickisrad]

all of the controls are electrical. I would have to say start with replacing the switch that controls the on off function that way you could stop the blower from putting out hot air. if it is just the temp control switch I am sure you could find one used at a junk yard, Morads auto parts, online, or in the stores cheap. I would be willing to bet that you have a hole in your condenser causing your AC not to work/blow cold. look at the condenser through the opening in your front grille and look for "wet" spots from a rock hitting it. If you do decide to put freon in it make sure you use the kind with the leak detecting dye.

[brcidd]

A '97 W car as is yours will have a cracked gear inside driver's side temp door actuator motor- above gas pedal- remove 2 5 mm screws and remove and unplug actuator- then either put a new gear in it or replace actuator for $90 or so...look for lack of rotation to verify failure mode - but they are always stuck on heat..

[ThanksForHelping]

Thanks, guys! I was about to tear into the dash to do some exploring when I decided to check back here. You've saved me a lot of work and headache and it is greatly appreciated.