1999 Ford Taurus possible actuator problem?

BMATIEL2002

MEMBER
1999 FORD TAURUS
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
190,000 MILES

Whenever the car is on, there is a thumping sound coming from the AC unit, regardless if it is on or off. The thump is periodic, happening every 5-15 seconds. If the AC or heater is turned on, the air will come out cold and then hot, then cold and then hot. I have been told the actuator flap is broken, or stuck in an inbetween position, neither fully open or closed. How is this fixed?

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,709 POSTS

When you say ac unit, are you refering to the compressor or inside the vehicle? IF it is in the vehicle, it sounds like a bad blend air door.

Let me know.

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Monday, September 13th, 2010 AT 11:30 AM

BMATIEL2002

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I am almost sure it is coming from the compressor.

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Wednesday, September 15th, 2010 AT 10:56 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,709 POSTS

If it does it with the AC off, I wouldn't think it's the compressor. Remove the serp belt and start the engine to see if the noise is gone with the AC not spinning. NOTE: Only run the engine a very short time without the belt. It will overheat.

If the noise is gone without the belt, then the compressor may be it. However, everything you have described sounds like the blend door is not working properly.

Let me know what you find.
Joe

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Wednesday, September 15th, 2010 AT 9:03 PM