I have a 91 GXE and the **** that changes the temp from hot to cold is extremely hard to move. Has anyone else had this problem. I think it just needs a new control cable, but if anyone know better, let me know. thanks all

 

This is a common problem on 3rd gens. When I was shopping for my 91, I saw a couple cars with this problem. I'm not sure what the fix is, but mine has the same problem. It moves full travel, but is stiff. Hopefully, someone who is familiar with this will answer your question.

 

See mine is more than stiff, I don't get full travel at all. I am an inch short on both sides.

 

I've had the problem and repaired it the first time by lubrication the track the lever slides in with lubriplate grease using a small screwdriver to reach into the slot it slides in. The first time this lasted a year or so. Yesterday it bound up again, the grease wouldn't work. I removed the heater control unit and could see the track the lever slides in was tore up blocking the movement. I cut out the track meterial using an exacto knife and reassembled. Works fine but a little sloppy movement now. I don't think the cable causes the problem. You can reach under the passenger side dash above the black box and find the other end of the cable attached to a heater vent door. You can get some extra movement by moving the door closed and maybe improving cold air for a while but when you turn up the heat it will bind again.

 

I have the same problem on my 93 Maxima. I also have to reach under the passenger side under the dash and manually move the the heater door closed by sliding the lever where it connects to the cable. Once I do that cold air works again. But when you need heat you will have to do the same thing the next time you when cold air. Kind of a pain but it works. If anyone knows how to fix permanantly I would like to know.

 

so replacing the cable won't fix this? how can u tell if its the lever or the cable?

 

i have the same problem too and have to reach under the dash to slide it all the way over to the cold side.....its been discussed b4 and i think you have to replace the cable, i'm not sure though....anyhow, its in the archives if i'm not mistaken!!!

 

I have been back in the archives and have found references to the problem but not any real fix or exacty what is the problem. If the cable has to be replaced I can tell you it will be a real pain. Look for help on this still..