No, it isn't harming anything having it propped open. You shouldn't be getting A/C through defrost. Check your vacuum supply at the input to all of the various vacuum switchover valves. It sounds like you have a weak or non-existent vacuum supply.

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Current stable:
1995 E320 157K (Nancy)
1983 500SL 125K (SLoL)

Gone but not forgotten:
1986 300SDL (RIP)
1991 350SD
1991 560SEL
1990 560SEL
1986 500SEL Euro (Rusted to nothing at 47K!)

Gone and wanting to forget:
1985 524TD 167K (TotalDumpster™) [Definitely NOT a Benz]