Heater fluctuation

1998 FORD WINDSTAR
190,000 MILES • 3.8L • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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DKSTEEVES
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have checked everything on this van and I still ride around cold. I replaced the thermostat with a 195 degree thermostat because someone put a 180 in it. I checked the blend air door actuator as well as fixed a air leak in the vacuum system. Everthing is working that I know of. The heater blows lukewarm at best and then goes to cold. If I slow the fan down it gets lukewarm again. Any suggestions of what to replace next would help.
Thanks for your time
David
Jan 29, 2016 at 7:41 PM
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WRENCHTECH
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 20,760 POSTS
With the engine at full operating temp, locate the 2 heater hoses where they go into the firewall and feel them to see if they are both hot to the touch. If they are both hot, the heat in that vehicle is controlled by a blend door that regulates heated air flow. it is operated by an electric motor/actuator. The problem can be that the actuator is stripped or inoperative or the door itself could be damaged. This is what needs to be determined by examining the actuator and see if it is responding to heat change commands or not.
Jan 29, 2016 at 10:13 PM
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