Does the regulator just quit or will it ruin a new motor if it's bad? I need to change the heater motor and I don't know if I need to change the regulator also. This could be an expensive repair. I remember hearing a slight squeek from the motor, then I lost the high fan, now the low fan has quit. Brrrrrr, it's cold out there so I need to fix it.

Thanks,

Craig

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1994 E420, Pearl Black/Black. 2.82 rear diff., AMG front spoiler, painted lower half. SOLD

1972 & 1974 BMW 2002tii's.

It could be that the regulator is what is keeping your fan from spinning. Once you have the filters out of the way (if so equipped) you should be able to force a few fingers far enough to feel the squirrel cage - see if you can get it to spin freely.

I had a double whammy - replaced the fan, and a month later the regulator (not cheap).

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It is a truism that almost any sect, cult, or religion will legislate its creed into law if it acquires the political power to do so. Robert A. Heinlein


09 Jetta TDI
1985 300D

I can't help you on the regulator question. However, regarding the motor; I used ATF to lube the shaft ends. It's quieter and spins smoothly and faster now. The squirl cages are expensive, be careful with them. Above the motor is a 2 piece cabin filter. Release the lower driver's side catch, slide out bottom piece and then second piece will slide down and out. Rotate the [6?8] clips to remove top half of heater motor housing.

Unfortunately, you have to remove the wiper assembly to remove the heater motor. It's easy, but time consuming because all the plastic shielding below the windshield has to be removed before the wiper assembly. It's also a good time to open up the wiper assembly and motor's transmission to clean & lube.

Bob
PS I did this routine this month, so if you need more specifics, ask.

Do I assume that if the cages won't turn easily, it needs to be lubed? I'm also assuming that I need to remove it from the car in order to get the ATF in the right places.

Are the filters side by side? I guess I should order 2 new filters since I know they haven't been changed in at least 4 years.

UGH! I have to do this tomorrow.

Craig

__________________
1994 E420, Pearl Black/Black. 2.82 rear diff., AMG front spoiler, painted lower half. SOLD

1972 & 1974 BMW 2002tii's.

"Do I assume that if the cages won't turn easily, it needs to be lubed?"

YES

"I'm also assuming that I need to remove it from the car in order to get the ATF in the right places."

Once you can see the cages, one clip [towards front of car - tip: insert pointed end of long nail punch {whatever} and push down - clip will easily pop open.] releases tensioned bracket, disconnect 2 wires and and motor w cages lifts straight up and out. Hold motor w cages vertically and use tranny dip stick to dribble ATF onto mating surface of both sides. Spin & smile!

"Are the filters side by side?"

YES

"I guess I should order 2 new filters since I know they haven't been changed in at least 4 years."

2 pieces come as one set in a box. "cabin filter" $21 autopartsguru and others

Bob

I don't know if it's because a '94 or because it's an E420, but hardly anything on this DIY seems to be similar to my car.

Craig

__________________
1994 E420, Pearl Black/Black. 2.82 rear diff., AMG front spoiler, painted lower half. SOLD

1972 & 1974 BMW 2002tii's.

Turned out to be the regulator. That is a PITA job. It's wedged in there really tight. Problem now is, I had so many things to do in between taking the old regulator out and putting the new one in, I have about 6 screws left over. When I got a couple of hours I'll go back in and see where they go.

I think I could R&R a blower motor in about an hour now.

Note to self....TAKE PICTURES!

Thanks for the help,

Craig

__________________
1994 E420, Pearl Black/Black. 2.82 rear diff., AMG front spoiler, painted lower half. SOLD

1972 & 1974 BMW 2002tii's.