98 Z71 - HVAC Mode Actuator Rod bent

[DenisMcG]

I have been having problems with the HVAC in my 98. I finally looked under the dash and found that the upper (forward) control rod was disconnected. The rod is bent and can be pulled out approx 3 inches. My first question is, which actuator is this, recirc, temp, defrost? Second, is there an easy way to fix this? What does the other end of the rod connect to?

 

Thanks for any help you can provide.

 

Denis

[DenisMcG]

I managed to get most of the ductwork apart over the weekend. I found that the rubber gaskets around each of the flaps had totally deteriorated and become very sticky. I suspect from someone using a solvent type lubricant. The defrost flapper had gotten stuck and was only slightly bent. I managed to unstick all of the flapper and cleaned them as best I could (while laying on back and reaching into the ductwork). If I could get the duct with the flaps out of the truck, I would be able to clean them properly and replace the rubber gaskets. But at least I now have proper air flow.

 

Denis