Volkswagen Repair: AC not blowing cold air, jetta gls, term residency


Question
I recently bought a 1998 Jetta GLS with the AC unit not working correctly.  The fan works, the clutch engages when depressing the AC button, the freon is at pressure, and the high pressure line is cold, but yet still warm air blowing.  What up?  I heard that some vent doors may not be opening/closing properly causing warm air to mix with cold?  Or the temp switch not working?  I understand the basics of AC dynamics, but do not know enough to diagnose the problem.  Any ideas?

Answer
Hi Brant;
I think you've got the problem nailed.  There are doors that are vacuum operated that allow the cool air to blow into the car.  If there were ever any rodents that took up short term residency they probably chewed up some of the insulation, made a nest, and blocked the "mixing door."  It's a 2 way door that will swing like a rotating door in a big office building, only with 2 chambers instead of 4, and if it's blocked, it won't go the right way, or far enough the right way to cool the interior.  There is no easy way in though.  The passenger compartment on the passenger side of the car has to come apart so the ductwork can be accessed.  Look at the diagrams, and follow the instructions in the "Bentley's" repair manual specifically for your car.  A copy should be available at your local library.  If not, order one.  It won't be money wasted.  Especially if you intend to do most of the work on your car yourself.  I'm sure you're right about the ductwork though.  Good luck, Brant.