Hi,
No, the resister isn't the issue. At some point in the system, there is an engine vacuum leak. The mode door actuator that controls air flow direction operates with engine vacuum. When you go up hill and your foot is heavier on the throttle, it causes vacuum to drop in the engine simply because the throttle plate is opened further.
When that happens, there is less available vacuum to the mode door actuator which is causing it to move or change the airflow direction to a different location. In most cases, it is to the defroster.
First, with the engine running, turn the fan on low and change the airflow direction to see if you hear a hissing sound or anything that sounds like a vacuum from under the dash. The actuator is on the passenger side under the glove box. I attached a picture of what it looks like and highlighted the vacuum hoses.
Pic 2 shows the entire system. I highlighted the mode actuators. Note the Plastic vacuum hoses to them are known to dry out and break. Also, the arrow in the upper left of the picture shows the vacuum supply is from the engine. We may have a leak under the hood as well.
Start with this and let me know if you find an issue.
Take care,
Joe
See pics below.
Images (Click to make bigger)
Monday, August 5th, 2024 AT 8:30 PM