Center vent half-ass solution?

[Erlend]

In pursuit of my windmill (fixing the ac), I did some exploratory surgery the other day to replace the expansion valve. I couldn't seem to help myself from also removing the glove box and checking out the storied center vent actuator. With the right center vent also removed, access didn't seem too bad. But before I knew it, I had disconnected the pin holding the actuator arm to the flap. What was I thinking? Or, what was I on? Anyway, I then decided to just open the flap, declare victory, and withdraw (or is that 'redeploy'). Wrapped everything up and now have use of center vents for any heating level. And for ac in the near future, I hope.

And my question is: am I doing any harm by simply leaving the center vent flap open like this? I have full control otherwise with the center vent nozzles. I have a vague glimmer of concern that the rubber dam coming from the flap assembly to the nozzles may not be designed for high heat situations. My understanding is that the center vents are supposed to be for fresh air or ac, but not heat.

What have I done?

No harm whatsoever. Heat will be stronger in winter if you close the flap w/ a long screwdriver through the center vents. I leave my closed all winter, then open it back up in the spring. Not working to factory spec, but it does the job.

My hands are too large to replace that infamous actuator way up in there.

[tyl604]

Sorry, I cannot answer your question but I have a similar problem The center vents (ie top of dash for defrosting windshield) stay open. I thought it might be a bad vacuum switchover valve and cannot find this valve. Is this valve what you are calling actuator? Someone told me his ('85SD)was located beneath the side carpet, passenger side of center console and I would not need to remove the glove compartment. Have not looked yet but do you think this valve is the one you located inside - which means I must remove the glove compartment?

[mobetta]

Originally Posted by tyl604

Sorry, I cannot answer your question but I have a similar problem The center vents (ie top of dash for defrosting windshield) stay open. I thought it might be a bad vacuum switchover valve and cannot find this valve. Is this valve what you are calling actuator? Someone told me his ('85SD)was located beneath the side carpet, passenger side of center console and I would not need to remove the glove compartment. Have not looked yet but do you think this valve is the one you located inside - which means I must remove the glove compartment?

year and model.....