Auto Air Conditioning & Heater Repair: Ford A/C problem., blower motor resistor, vacuum problem

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I have a 1997 Ford E150 Club-wagon van & it has separate a/c dash controls for the front & back vents.  I believe there are two separate condensers for the front & back vents but only 1 condenser. I also believe there are two separate fans (one for the front & 1 for the back). The problem is that there is hardly any air coming out of the front(dash)vents.  It doesn't matter what setting the front motor setting is selected(low, med, or high). No matter what fan speed is selected, nothing changes.  Nothing much comes out although what does feels cool.  I changed out the front blower motor resistor, & I also put 12 volts to the blower motor directly & it works fine.  I can only think there is a problem with the fan speed selector switch (for the front vents) on the dash but I don't know how to get it out or even how to test it.  Also a neighbor said it sounded like a possible vacuum problem but I have no idea what he is talking about.  Anyway, the air coming out of the back(of the van)vents comes out very cool so I don't think there is any kind of leak. And the back vent selector switch works correctly(low, med, high speeds).  Can you help?

ANSWER: Hi Jim

This ford product has a lot of problems with the switch.  They tend to burn out and burn the connector also.  You must remove the entire black cover for the instrument panel.  Then remove the control and replace the switch and connector if damaged.

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QUESTION: Thank you so much for your quick reply.  I guess I can't complain too much since we've had the van since 1997.  Anyway, can you tell me how to get this dash apart.  I've looked at the dash and I can't see any screws & my Haynes manual and it isn't much help.  Also, is there a way to test the switch before replacing it? Or is it not worth the trouble and are the replacements switch and connectors cheap.

Answer
Check just above the steering wheel on the plastic that has your instrument cluster.  You will find 2 9/32 screws remove them remove radio. You will need a (Ford radio removal) tool for that.  You can go by a local radio shop and they may remove it for you.  Then just pull the plastic cover to get to the control.