Auto Parts: blend door actuator, mercury grand marquis, pep boys

Question
I have a 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis.  A while back, a loud clicking sound started in the top center of the dash.  I ran the EATC diagnostic and found that the problem is a "blend door actuator malfunction."  I plan to fix the problem myself, but do not have the time nor the money to mess with it now.  Instead, I would like to disconnect the actuator's wiring harness to stop the clicking.  I don't care if it effects the defrost, heat, or AC!  Is it possible to do this without removing the whole dash?  If so, where is the connection located and what does it look like?

Thanks,

Denise Noffsinger

Answer
Hi Denise,

I think if you disconnect the blend actuator, you will also lose function of the fan as they are powered by the same relay. Also, most Ford's stow the blend-door inside the blend-box so access to the actuator is probably just as difficult.

I don't think you have to remove the entire dash on that vehicle, access to most of the blend-box can be made easier by removing the glove-box insert. I don't know if you'll find the actuator there or the wire harness for it, but it can't hurt to look.

Looking for a reputable service technician? My advice on finding a good technician is: Steer clear of the dealership and 'chain' stores like Firestone, Sears, Pep Boys, Monro Muffler/Brake, Midas, etc. as they usually only employ ONE ASE Certified Tech just so they can say they do and chances are, that guy is the asst. manager or manager and is not in the store to diagnose/repair vehicles anyway. Find a service location in the link below or get some names out of the yellow-pages and do a drive-by. Garages that employ ASE Certified Technicians will be marked with the 'Blue-Seal' insignia. If unsure about whether a place employs Certified Techs, just ask to see their credentials. ALL ASE Certified Technicians will be PROUD to show and display their certificate(s).

Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
Knucklebusters Used Auto & Truck Parts, Inc.
www.knucklebusters.us
570-453-0910
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