2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Heater/AC control problem

[surfbeetle]

This week, my A/C hasn't been turning on unless I turn the top Vent control switch on my 95 to the off position and then to any of the vent choices. Has anyone had this issue? I usually only have it in the feet and head position or the recirculate position, so I never move it much. Is this repairable or does anyone know the part no and price to replace the switch?

thanks

 

[MAleshire]

I really don't know if it's repairable. I've replaced it once, and it is really an expensive part from the dealer. I went to a junk yard and pulled one of a similar year truck as mine. That switch is part of a sealed unit that controls heat/air temp, fan, and opening and closing of vents. One thing I learned is that the larger two switch knobs---the ones for the vent positions and the air/heat temp is the most replaced knob on the truck. They break, and you think you are turning the switch to a different position when you are actually just spinning the switch. You think something major is wrong and it's just a broken switch.



What you are describing is really weird. I think the vent control operates by vacuum, and should have anything to do with weather or not the air conditioning operates.



Hope you get it figured out!



Skip

 

[surfbeetle]

Thanks Skip. When I turn the upper knob, the air is redirected to the different vents, but unless I turn it pointing down to the off position and then back on, the A/C may or may not come back on. If I have the A/C on then turn off the truck then restart the truck, it's a crapshoot whether the A/C will come back on. I then have to move the upper knob. Does anyone know what this switch assembly is called?

 

[MAleshire]

It's called an Hvac Dash Control Unit. BTW if you are not aware of this website

Mopar Parts for Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep: MoparPartsAmerica you should write it down. It's great for identifying parts. If you have to get an OEM part their prices are substantially cheaper than directly from a dealer. You can order from them over the web. I believe they are a distribution center of Dodge dealers. They are located in Beaverton, OR. BTW, I don't understand your description of being able to turn that upper switch down to the off position. That "OFF" marking pertains to the smaller switch below which controls fan speed and A/C. That upper switch should not pivot past the "recirculation indicator". If you can pivot it that far it may be broken. Have you pulled that switch dial off to look at it? Hope this info helps!

Skip

 

[surfbeetle]

Thanks for the info and the link Skip. I will check it out. Yes the off is between the top large knob and the middle smaller knob and it turns the system off no matter if you turn the vent control knob or the fan control knob you to it. I had the engine running and the hood up and was checking this with the fan clutch to see if it was engaging. If my fan knob is in the left A/C half and the upper was on any setting, the A/C clutch should be engaged and spinning. It would not until I turned the vent control to the off position and then back on. It could be that the upper switch contacts are going bad or dirty. Thanks again for your info on the parts link, I will definitely take a look at it.