Tightening A/C Knobs

My a/c knobs aren't what they used to be. They move loosely between the settings...no real firm stops between each setting. I've had similar problems on just about every Ford I've driven... for those, they eventually got to the point where you would turn the knob but the settings wouldn't change (stripped maybe?). I'd like to get mine solid again before it ever gets to that point. Any tips? Would new knobs do the trick?

There is a mechanism inside that is sort of like a notched wheel that has a spring-loaded bar sliding over it. The bar is made of nylon, which is self-lubricating, but it loses its springiness over time. Unless you're really good at fabrication, repairing the mechanisim is impossible. Your options are getting a new HVAC assembly from Ford ($$$$) or finding a unit in a junkyard that isn't as worn out.

I think high heat tends to deteriorate the plastic in the dash more quickly, so if the car spends years sitting outside with 140 degree cabin temps, that stuff might wear out sooner.

That would be the case unfortunately... I need to find a junkyard that doesn't have a bunch of weird creepy old men running them (if they exist).

Your user name sucks

And yours is much better. Go and troll elsewhere please.

How about "NO"

Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt.

-SC

I think in your case this more than applies. :Zip2:

How about "NO"