W123 1979 240D

My fan switch and/or the attached flap cable control have frozen up. I need to replace one or both. (From what I have been told, I suspect the cable.) But first, I need to get it apart.

I am now where I have access to the end of the cable where it attaches to a lever in the heater box. That lever and pin are plastic and I sure don't want to break that. However, I can't get the cable off of the pin. Is there a technique for removing the cable? I have been very careful about applying too much pressure.

At the other end, where the cable attaches to the fan switch, there is only about a 3/4 inch space between the top of the radio compartment and the panel where the switch is mounted to try to get the connector loose. So far I haven't managed that either. Am I going to have to remove the entire center console to be able to get to that?

One last question: the end of the cable at the heater box is vertical. Is there any percentage to injecting some penetrating oil there?

Thanks for your help.

Well, this doesn't seem to be a very popular post. Donnie, M.B.DOC, haven't you ever had to replace one of these cables or switches? Are there no answers to these questions?

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Ted
1979 240D

[This message has been edited by Ted2222 (edited 07-02-2000).]

Well Ted, I'll give it a shot based on my general knowledge of these systems. Sheathed control cables are usually attached to the heater box or support structure by a retainer strap or clip and screw of some kind. Usually to remove the bent end of the cable from the lever you will need to free up the cable from the retainer to be able to rotate it enough to get it detached from the control lever. You will probably have to remove the whole control unit to get the cable off of the switch. If you can get at it, try your idea of the penetrating oil, let it sit for an hour and gently try to move the cable. Do this one more time and if it does not produce any movement, you will have to replace the cable. Hope this helps.

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Jeff Lawrence
1987 300e
1989 300e
1987 BMW 325

[This message has been edited by jeffsr (edited 07-02-2000).]

Thank you, Jeff. I shall go back to work using your advice and will let you know what happens.

Have a good day.


Ted

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Ted
1979 240D