My AC doesnt work and would like it working before summer comes around. Here is what has been wrong with it.

1) Intermittent cold to not working first suspected loss in pressure but a quick check of the stem valve shows 38PSI

2) Decided not to use A/C for a little while (couple months)

3) Decided to turn on A/C again and very soon the light in the climate control above the A/C started blinking. This informs of a compressor seize.

4) Hand crank of A/C is stiff with clutch engaged and after evacuating the refridgerant the compressor is less stiff.

What I would like to know is how should I proceed to check the expansion valve to see if it is clogged or not before I purchase a new compressor. The expansion valve is rather hard to get to and fi there is a smart way to check for it without fancy guages it would help. (I only have guage for low side). At the the moment the system is empty. There has been no prior services with the A/C. There are "no" leaks in the system.