How to fix air conditioner on 1995 ford aerostar?

My 206,000 mile 1995 Ford Aerostar a/c just went out. The compressor does not come on and when i put a Gauge on it there is no pressure. How should i proceed if i want to repair it myself. I do all my own work on my cars, but never have had to do a/c work. Should I change the compressor and hoses. Or should I start with putting some dye in and see where it leaks.How to fix air conditioner on 1995 ford aerostar?While you may be able to be the parts changer for the hard parts, you cannot get the freon to put into the system. A Licensed Tech is the only person that can purchase and install the gas/oil into the system. Then you'll also need the proper tools to do the work. The gauge set, vac pump, fittings. and the chart to know how many pounds of freon to install into the system.