The 98 van is only the second generation, anyways, the problem is that with the AC and recirc buttons flashing, the HVAC controller failed the cooldown test. So if you ac doesn't work, these lights may not stop flashing until it is fixed. To try and restart the cooldown test, you need to:

TO INITIATE TESTS:
Set Blower motor ON HIGH
Set Mode position to Panel
Open all A/C outlets
Set Temperature to Cold (Both slide pots if equipped)
Depress WASH and A/C simultaneously for 5 Seconds

NOTE: Prior to start of test, If the evaporator is already cold, the system will fail test. To correct, operate system with A/C OFF and the blower motor ON high for three minutes prior to starting test.

RESULTS:
All LED's will turn on for 5 Seconds
Cooldown Test is running when A/C and RECIRC. are alternately flashing. If A/C and RECIRC. are flashing simultaneously, Cooldown has failed.

 

OK. I was finally able to run the test procedure that was given in the last post. It ran for a couple of minutes and then failed?? We've not had any problems with the air conditioning system up to this point. Again, this started with the battery issue. Is it possible that this could be a fuse issue?? If so, which one(s) would I check to see if they're bad or not?? Thanks!

 

I believe that the issue has been resolved?? We'll see how things go. I tried again to run the cooldown test. This time the lights remained lit for a period of time and then they went out. Now it seems to be working as it should. The 2 lights in question don't blink when the vehicle is restarted. Hope it's fixed! Thanks for the info!