SurfAnimal

Hi all. This is my first post here. Probably wont be the last.
My 1995 Suburban, has an issue where my heat just blows out on the floor. I can't get it to change to the defroster, or the dash vents.
I originally thought there was a flapper under the dash, that was not flapping, but after a quick YT search, I guess it could be the control panel.
Amazon has a new Delco panel, but before I drop $269, it would be nice to know that it was the problem.
Is this a well known issue for these years? Thanks in advance, Bobby.

oldchevy

Welcome from Florida. What you are describing is likely a bad mode actuator or a stuck mode door. Yes it is under the dash.

Cusser

Both my 1994 and my 2005 had bad actuators under the dash causing similar. I had a mechanic do the 1994 for about $400 (ouch !!) and I replaced the actuator myself on the 2005, I used a Dorman aftermarket one which aligned with same GM number.

SurfAnimal

Thanks guys. Is there an easy way to diagnose it?
Bearing in mind that I'm a decent wrench, but when it comes to electrical, I'm a caveman.

Cusser

If I remember correctly, I could rotate my actuator to the 3 different positions with a screwdriver, or maybe that was after I un-did the two screws and removed the actuator. Was a couple of years ago. I do remember grinding my 5.5mm socket shorter to get the $%^&##^%&# cover off !!!

SurfAnimal

When I turn the heater ****, the little siver wheel on the actuaor rotates freely on its own.

Cusser

You mean the **** is bad? Or the switch is bad?

SurfAnimal

Upon further review, the actuator DOES move the arms above it. I guess that means the switches and the actuator are good.

oldchevy

if the actuator is moving the door then the air should be switching to the other vents unless the door itself is broken and it only looks like it is moving or you could be looking at the wrong actuator.

SurfAnimal

I'm looking at the actuator under the steering wheel , to the right of the gas pedal. I dont know how to tell if the door is broken, but I know theres another actuator type thing behind the dash...