Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Heater System: Description
System is a blend-air type. Outside air is heated and then mixed with cooler outside air to attain desired temperature. System consists of a blower and an air inlet assembly, heater air distributor assembly and heater control panel.
Blower, air inlet assembly and heater hoses are located on the engine side of dash panel while heater core and distributor duct are on passenger side. System has no heater control valve. Coolant circulation keeps heater core hot at all times.
Operation of blower motor is controlled by the fan switch. The motor is connected in series with the fan switch and blower resistor assembly.
On all Van models, an auxiliary heater is available for heating rear of vehicle. The unit operates independently of standard heater and has its own set of controls. Heater hoses connect at the standard heater and extend from the standard heater to the auxiliary heater. A vacuum-operated heater control valve is installed in the inlet line in the engine compartment to cut off coolant flow when heat is not desired. See Figure and Figure .
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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