OK, so I've been putting off fixing my lack of heat, lack of AC problem for too long and I tackled it today. Was pretty sure it was a cracked plastic connector from the blend door motor to the blend door (288,000 miles) so I ordered a Heater Treater kit with the metal piece to replace th plastic OEM. It seems like a good kit and way to go.

Got under the dash, pulled back the carpet, cut away some sound deadener, got at the hard to reach rear screw on the actuator and removed it. The plastic wasn't cracked but did show some wear. Replaced it with the new metal connector and am ready to replace the actuator motor tomorrow. Couldn't wait to see if it might help so I moved the blend door by hand and took it for a drive. Didn't see much difference in heat output with the blend door moved either way. Will check again after tomorrow's contortion/install exercises! Here are the heat stats I got today:

Heater hose/heater core inlet temp = 160º
Heater hose/heater core outlet temp = 115º
Upper radiator hose temp = 155º

Heat output from upper dash vents = no more than 75º

I'm kinda ready for a letdown when I reinstall the actuator motor and test drive it tomorrow based on the lack of improvement by manipulating the blend door by hand.

Thanks so much for any insight!

 

I don't think the blend door will still in place without the motor attached.... the breeze likely blows it around. Also, some folks have had the door break away from the axle.... so it doesn't matter where you move it, it simply doesn't move.

I think you also have the wrong thermostat in there. Radiator hose at the thermostat housing should be closer to 195 degrees.

 

+1 on replacing the thermostat

 

A 180 degree stat in mine works well....imo

 

I have a 180 thermostat and here in PA you don't get good heat if it's really cold and you are moving. I think I'm going to buy a winter front