A/c Pod Mounting

[tan man]

victim: 1985 380sl
symptom: center vent flaps don't move
diagnosis: the actuator pod needs replacing (checked with vacuum and confirmed it leaks)
problem: on removing the radio and a/c control panel I can clearly see the heater box plastic case where the pod is mounted is cracked. the pod is hanging free. I know to replace that pod requires taking apart the entire dash. but then if I install new one....install it to what? it has to go in the same identical location/angle in order to keep the arm on the pod properly aligned with the flap. otherwise the strain may mess up the flap. quick/easy fix would be crazy glue or plastic weld, but if that does not hold I really don't look forward to taking the dash apart a second time. I checked parts catalogues and don't sees heater box replacements. also, it looks like there are other things riveted to the inside of that plastic frame besides the pod (4 other rivet spots). I don't like to go in blind.
any suggestions?