Answer this question: “Temperature blend door not working”
“Can I get at this valve assembly without removing the dash ? Where exactly is this thing located ? Chiltons’ show only the cable controlled unit. I have the non cable unit. How can I install manually controlled temp blend door positioner? I think the actuator works but the link arm is broke. I need to see what is going on before I commit to removing the dash and plenum.”
I have done it on the Ranger (and other ford vehicles are similar) without removing the dash.
The blend door actuator is relatively inexpensive, about $50 at a parts store, and although the repair instructions say the instrument panel must be removed I have done a few with taking out the dash.
The actuator is a small black box with an connector. it sits on top of the plenum and attaches directly to the blend door shaft. It is a small electric motor that is controlled by the temperature dial on the dash and turns the blend door to change hot/cold position. the plastic gear inside the unit strips out, that’s why you can hear it “doing something” but the door doesn’t move.
You may be able to replace it without taking out the dash. remove the glove box and lower trim panel under the glove box, look through the opening to the left towards the middle of the truck, on top of the plenum for a small black box (about 2 or 3″ square and 1″ tall) with a single connector – remove the connector and get a mirror in above it to see the screws.
The toughest part is getting the right tool and your hand into the tight space, but it can be done,
Good luck!
Robert Grove
Mobile Mechanic
