rligeti

When I first got my car the HVAC controls were a little wonky, and slow to "engage" if that's the right word.

Now it seems the only 2 settings that work properly are the first position (the rectangle/main vents I guess it's called), and the defrost setting to the far right. I cant get any air out in the footwells or the high/low spit to work.

The good news is that the system blows HARD and the A/C is ICE cold.

So, i guess it's gonna be a hunt for a vacuum leak or something right? Any easier solutions I could try first? Also, as long as I'm pulling out the heater control unit, how hard is it to replace the bulbs in it? Most of them are burned out.

Thanks!
Rob

tlsmith1999

here is a link to Pritle's write up on checking the actuators:

http://members.rennlist.com/pirtle/svc.html

rligeti

Thanks for the link! It looks like there's going to be some dismantling involved....

Bill Ball

Rob: Remove the carpeted side panels on the sides of the console. You should be able to spot the plastic cover that holds the vacuum solenoids behind the radio. It has 3 Phillips screws, one on each end that are easy to remove and one buried in the center that may be removed with that twist ratchet you just bought or something similar but smaller. Let me know if I can help.

rligeti

Thanks Bill! I appreciate the "how-to" and I still have at least one favor to return before asking for another one! If I get stuck, or dont know what I'm looking for, I'll give you a call or shoot you a PM.

Thanks!
Rob

Mrmerlin

there is only one bulb in the head unit its used to supply light to all of the parts of the HVAC unit via flexible cables.
it is the same bulb thats used in pod switches,
you will need a small pair of needle nose pliers to remove the light holder its buried between the top an bottom slide mechanisims

rligeti

Great to know! Thanks for the clarification.

M. Requin

And another thing- it could be the "sliders" themselves. They are open to cockpit air, and accumulate quite a bit of grunge over the years. So a WYAIT job as you tackle this project is to remove the HVAC control unit, separate the clamshell, and clean it all up. Might help.

Hilton

+1 - if I recall from having mine apart to change the bulb, the two end positions have microswitches that bypass the slider, which would explain your symptoms.

M. Requin

Exactly- thanks for adding this- explains the failure mode.