Hello everyone, whom may it concern. I just repaired a HVAC problem that would drive most drivers/passengers nuts. I want to post a video online to share and help others
Initial concern: HVAC stuck on Panel vents
after first repair attempt I got the Mode actuator working but the blend door actuator was at fault,
Symptom: Heat on driver side, cold on passenger side, blend door stuck.
So this Blend Door Actuator controls two doors, one for the temperature of the DCC(Dual Climate Control) and one for the routing.
after Glove box removal, I noticed it would not be easy to repair for the HVAC unit was in the way, of replacement of the BDA. So what you have to do is pay attention to the orientation of the actuator prongs. remove the two bottom bracket screws and you will have to bent the top arm of the bracket to unscrew the BDA from the inner side. With a small screw driver. One you get the three screws removed you will be able to remove the BDA and replace it, saving a lot of time by leaving the bracket in, but will be difficult working inside the dash but it’s not that bad.
The replacement actuator I got off ebay did not have the dual prong gear to move both blend doors. So what I did is I soldered the motor and replaced that because the gears internally were fine and just needed a motor, pins and connections were also fine luckily. After swapping some small o-rings to the replacement motor I then popped it back into the BDA, re-secured cover. Plug it into the connector and provide power to make sure it operates. Readjust BDA prong gear to appropriate orientation of the blend door levers.They are specific to which prong goes to each door so they may spin without collision. Screw the actuator back onto the bracket. Hooked up and retested with will holding in BDA in place to ensure it moved the doors as designed before final securing. And that’s confirmed repair of the Dual zone climate control blend door actuator on the Lexus GX 470.
called the dealer, estimated repair cost $700-$800
My repair: $40 ebay HVAC Actuator
ERT: 2-3hrs

 

Gotta love those money saving DIY's. Good job. Can't wait to see the fix video.