Added: 1 year ago
From: EricTheCarGuy
Views: 14,738
Sort by time | Sort by thread (beta)

Link to this comment:

Share to:

All Comments (185)

Sign In or Sign Up now to post a comment!
  • Stop pull fromtop!

  • and how much was it

  • where did u get the new part

  • Great vid.. U remind me of the guy from dirty jobs u even sound like him

  • @ericspeed202267 Thank you very much, I love Mike Rowe.

  • You're videos are awesome man. I like that you get into some much detail. Also I'm glad you just don't dub your videos with some crappy music. They are perfect the way they are. I noticed you have a full tank .I haven't had one in a year with my 96 suburban. Haha.

  • @Treskate Yea it gets kind of pricy to fill that beast up. Thanks for the comment.

  • I am having a similar issue on my 99 Tahoe. I can not get the heating to work as well as the selector for foot face front defrost etc does not work. The fans switch is functional though. You think that could be the issue? I am going to Junkyard in the morning to get the part since GM wants 289 at the dealership.

  • @Da808Boii It's possible, the only way to really know is to check to see if the actuators in the HVAC are getting signals from the head unit, if they aren't then you can reasonably conclude the head unit is the problem. Good luck.

  • you dont have to take the bottom of the dash off just the top

  • @BigDtheFreestyleMC You are correct, thanks for your input.

  • Thanks Eric!! I appreciate all that you do man.

    

  • @obamamr666 Thank YOU for the great comment.

  • It surprises me that you went ahead and got a new hub BEFORE you took the faulty one out and checked what the problem was. I already knew it was going to be a dirty connector and was like *ugh* when you pulled up a replacement hub (not just one switch but an entire hub at that)

    You said it yourself, never assume anything. Find the problem before you buy new parts.

    And yeah, plastic is easy to take apart but the quality you get is the price of that "easy" assembly. I prefer screws!

  • @RealCadde I had confirmed that the problem was in the head unit and unfortunately you can't return electrical parts. You must also consider the logistics of running a shop as you work on many vehicles with many needs and you don't always have the time to remove something and wait for a day or 2 to get the part. Lastly consider that my mistakes are for YOUR benefit, I don't mind at all if you're better than me and you learn from my mistakes because I would have still done my job of educating.

  • @EricTheCarGuy Oh no nono. Didn't mean it like that man. Sorry if i offended you.

  • @RealCadde I'm sorry if I came off as offended I get a little cranky sometimes after answering a lot of comments. No hard feelings.

  • Nice vid, my dad help me paid for this exact car, and he bought a nice stereo with 3.5 in monitor. if possible, can you make a video where you change the stereo system? I dont want you to use the same stereo as mine, only one that gives me an idea on what to do... :)

  • @Alan00376 I may get to that at some point but I don't have anything planned at the moment. Thanks for your comment.

  • Mm listen to all that cheap squeaky poorly-designed plastic.

  • I haev the same radio in my jimmy. and I got two bulbs burnt out I also got some bulbs burnt in my AC unit. would it be worth it to replace those?

    and what about the burnt bulbs in my steering wheel?

  • @TJC450 Replacing the bulbs is not that big of a deal really, I recommend replacing them all though because for whatever reason when you just replace the burned ones the others go bad shortly after. Not sure what you mean by bulbs in your steering wheel.

  • @EricTheCarGuy my Jimmy has steering wheel mounted radio controls and at night they used to be light up.

  • @TJC450 Yep, you can replace those bulbs too if they are out.

  • @EricTheCarGuy I just dont see how though? lol Seems like a very tricky task.

  • @TJC450 If the dealer has an exploded view of the part you will see that it has replaceable bulbs if that is the case.

  • @EricTheCarGuy lol im not going to a dealer for a 11 year old car haha.

    maybe ill try some forum searches or something.

  • @TJC450 A forum won't have the parts you need and I don't think those are available aftermarket, you may be able to find an online source but you might want to have the part numbers handy.

  • You can just replace the switch. 17.99 @ auto zone...

  • May have been a solder joint?

  • @stlouissux9119 Possibly but I didn't open the unit up to check and see.

  • I am having the same sort of problem. At first High was the only speed that would work, but if i left it on Medium or Low and drove around, it would kick on at random times.. usually when i was giving it a lot of gas to get on to the highway... but now it does not work at all.. in your opinion, does that sound like a fuse issue, wiring, or a switch issue? thanks for any advice..

  • @thebrambo123 : also, the back blower works fine, as well as the driver control for the back blower... thanks again.

  • @thebrambo123 The fuses are easy enough to check, if it's not that it still could be a wiring problem but I was able to tap on this unit to get it to work therefore I was able to conclude that there was a connection issue inside the unit itself.

  • Thanks!! I was having the same issue. I was able to find the switch for $39.99 , so I did not have to replace to whole unit. Also you saved me time with showing the removal of the dash board. Great Video!! Thanks

    1999 Chevy Tahoe AC & Heater Control Switch (AC DELCO 15-80386) for FRONT Blower with A/C $39.99

  • @playmateperu I'm glad the video helped, one of my favorite things is hearing about how my videos helped people get a job done. Thanks very much for your comment.

  • @bosshogg95slt thnx I'm gonna give it a shot because those things are expensive and I recently bought it so it's brand new ... Thnx again for the info

    @ ETCG I checked the fuse box I even went As far as replacing fuses just so that I can rule that out hopefully I get it running in time for summer if not EBay here I come

  • little tip for those lightbulbs.. if you have to replace them, think about getting LED replacements (look on ebay or whatever)..

    those won't "burn out" for the rest of the cars lifetime ;)

    (and you can pick almost any color you want)

    my bro was fed up with those stupid lights burning out. replaced one, and another one went a week or two later and crap like that.

    shotgun approach with LED replacements. they'll outlast the car.. one problem less to worry about ;)

  • @Knaeckebrotsaege I was not aware that those were available, I'll look into it, thanks for the tip.

  • I was changing my headunit and a RCA cable accidentally touched the A/C unit n now it only blows out through the front vent right below the windshield (not the regular front vents) and it only blows cold air ....is it salvageable ???

  • @LAV2000SS You might check the fuses to see if you blew one, this would really only be the case if you had the key on while you were doing the work though, if not it's still not a bad idea to check there first.

  • @LAV2000SS yes more than likely you fried one of the 4 transistors on the board that controls the air vent selector if you can solder just a little you can save about 200 plus

  • @LAV2000SS yes more than likely you fried one of the 4 transistors on the board that controls the air vent selector if you can solder just a little you can save about 200 plus its a common problem with these units

  • i know this has nothing to do with a hvac head unit replacement but u have a 96 mercury sable ls that has a transmission problem that did not occur until the last oil change and tune up it sounds like a vacum leak because while its running you hear like a hiss noise but its not continous it has a pause for bout one second but it does it so long as the car is running but cant find the leak maybe you can help me

  • @eminem5131 Your description sounds very much like a vacuum leak. I actually did a video on how to find them if that helps.

  • The clever GM Parts Counter: In the GM World they want to sell you the entire Control Module HVAC assembly. In fact, it is almost impossible to procure a part number, in this case, for the Blower Motor Switch (from GM). However, most GM electrical parts are stamped with either a GM # (8 digit - 16192099) or AC Delco part number (15-72275). They can be hard to find but are usually present. Of course, no one has time to remove the bezel, obtain the part number and then order and install it.

  • @TwinsSeptic Sylvania has a nice automotive light bulb catalog online. They list three instrument panel lights, 161, 194 and 74. However, I think each of these are clear/white and not colored (e.g. amber). When you call a dealer you will be amazed at how expensive the colored lights are - ETCG is very smart to retain this part. for future recycling. Be seated while obtaining the dealer price!

  • @epiphaknee Thanks very much for the helpful information. You rock man.

  • That was surprisingly simple, but also explains how cheaply the old American cars were put together. The part where you explained that you were gonna keep head unit made me chuckle a bit. That's how hording starts, Eric :D

  • @mrjost55 Thanks for the comment. I see things differently, that's where the profit starts. If at some point I get someone that needs one of those bulbs all I would need to is get one from this unit and install it for less than they would need to pay for a new one. See the shop tour video, hoarders are not as organized as I am.

  • Thanks anyway. Keep up the good work and Keep the videos coming, you will make a mechanic out of me one day!

  • Do you know the part number for the amber and white lights you pointed out in the head unit you replaced?

  • @TwinsSeptic In fact I don't, sorry. I'm sure a parts dealer would however.

  • I have a very similar type of vehicle. I recently found out I had a bad heater core. Would this be a similar procedure to get this removed and replaced(of course I know I need to pull out the hoses). Thanks a lot of you do respond. Happy holidays.

  • @Whatsauce202 This video shows how to remove the HVAC head unit only, to remove the heater core you would need to remove the dash assembly and then the HVAC assembly to replace the heater core. You would also need to evacuate the AC system because you will need to disconnect the lines going into the evaporator.

  • u dont have to do the lower the top just pulls off duh

  • @279spirit I mentioned that in the video, pay attention.

  • The reason I asked about the vents is I saw a GMC Jimmy Diamond Edition on a web forum where a guy dressed up the vents & the plastic door handle backing plate to silver to help match the interior with the exterior. To my knowledge GM only made 4k units of the 30th anniversary Diamond Edition & only came in 2 colors. Black w/silver trim (that's mine) & red w/silver trim that came factory equipped with black & brushed silver running boards & fog lamp equipped brush guard.

  • @Michiganborn1969 To be honest I really couldn't say for a couple of reasons, first I didn't take the vents out to do this work and second when you ask how hard it is to do something it's really difficult to judge because of differing skill levels and tools. From what I know of your I think you would be able to manage it however.

  • Do you suppose the air vents on the dash panel are easy to remove/install? Btw that window lift motor never acted up again & since I had 90 days to return the new motor to AZ I returned it the other day. I'll just wait till it takes a 100% dump on me then I will replace it.

  • @Michiganborn1969 That's a plan.

  • I need your help. I have a 1998 Chrysler Intrepid. When I apply the brakes I hear a screching sound from the back wheels. The brake pads are in alright condition. The rotor has a drum brake assembly under it. Please help me. P.s The rotors have studs welded to them.

  • @BeginnerMechanic Remove the wheels on BOTH sides and inspect the brakes, in my experience it's the rear pads that wear more than the outer so be sure to check them. Also the 'cheep' pads tend to make noise as they are often metallic.

  • Doing real good here in Cali Eric ty. I know all about busy, with the 2 jobs I have here between the casino and the other one I told ya about I've been busyer then a 1 legged man in an ass kicking contest working almost 7 days/week. Saw your post on FB and looking forward to seeing your latest project. Take it easy and ttul.

  • @Michiganborn1969 Good to hear that your doing well, busy is good, it will keep you out of trouble. I think your going to like what I have in store, stay tuned.

  • Just stopping by to say Hi Eric lol. I see some folks made the same blooper I made a few weeks ago and posted the same comment more then once. Oh well I guess it will happen.

  • @Michiganborn1969 Hey man good to see you. Been awful busy around hear lately, a good thing in my opinion. Hope things are well with you.

  • @Jeffmtbr & @ETCG, I haven't worked on a Tahoe before, but most cars have a little plunger type thing on the side of the dash where the dash and door panel meet. When the door is open, the plunger is out and the beep starts. When the door is closed the plunger is compressed and the beep stops. So if you take some duct tape or similarly strong tape and put it over the plunger to keep it compressed, the beep will stop because the cars 'puter thinks the door is closed. Hope that helps... :-)

  • @petrock99 They also make a tool that depresses this plunger so you can work without the beep.  Personally I don't mind it, I just ignore it but since there's been so many comments on this I'm going to do things differently next time.

  • Eric, i really enjoy your vids. This one reminds me to tell my friends to stop complaining about the high cost of automotive labor, because its HARD WORK and takes SKILL!

    LOL Ferd

  • @gst69man It does take a certain type to do this kind of work to be sure and it's always nice to get paid for it. Thanks for your comment.

  • Lucky these aren't soldered in. I had to resolder every single bulb on my 2004 Buick because half of the dash lights were out. the stealership wanted $400 just to fix the instrument cluster.

  • Lucky these aren't soldered in. I had to resolder every single bulb on my 2004 Buick because half of the dash lights were out. the stealership wanted $400 just to fix the instrument cluster.

  • hey i have a quick question i have a 02 montana and in the head unit like your talking abt some leds are burnt out are they abvle to be changed and or ar they hard sodderd into it

    just dont wanna take apart it i dont have to that bad thanks alot

  • @kawasaki000000000000 Considering how easy it was to get this out you might want to consider getting a new one from salvage and swap it out. As for the internals I'm really not sure, for the most part it really didn't look serviceable.

  • Nice

  • what kind of bulbs are those? i need some for my switches

    tnx

  • @IIGrayfoxII Sometimes the only place to get them is at the dealer but you might check with your auto part supplier to see if they have a listing for your application.

  • good one Eric, Personally I hate taking dash pieces apart they get old and brittle and i always break stuff, oh and where did you get that high tech switch testing tool i need to get me one of them lol

  • @croom9 They come in packs of 10 mostly.

  • Good one buddy.... It funny I was thinking lets opened it and look at the switch and you did it lol I like the way you think

  • @malecco1 I like the way YOU think.

  • Just curious- I'd be a little concerned about going into the dash without disconnecting battery- can airbag be triggered?

  • @SWD2263 Not really, airbag wiring and connectors are yellow and clearly marked and will actually work for a while with the battery disconnected. A couple people have mentioned disconnecting the battery but in this case the key was off so the circuit for this was open for the HVAC. Thanks for the comment.

  • Do you know wat could be wrong with my 1999 Suburban as the front a/c doesnt really cool down but the back a/c is cold. I just added freon as it was a bottle short but still the same problem, thanks.

  • @TheChevelle427 It could be the expansion valve on the front unit if there aren't any detectable leaks.

  • cool vid.

  • @spelunkerd

    You never know. When I went to that vocational school that was some time around 1988 & the guts of electronics was more bulkyer back then. Looking back I wish I had the class next door where they were introducing fiber optics for the first time. Unfortunatly I didn't take it serious because they just looked like fancy see though wires with a pretty light show at the ends of em. Go figure they REALLY took off.

  • Hi Eric! I was just wondering if you have noticed any other electrical problems with the 99 Tahoe? I have one as well and have noticed multiple electrical problems from the dome lights to the daytime running lights, slowly different components are failing. Just wondering if you had any problems along those lines...Also we had to disable the ABS system because it would kick in at odd times such as dry summer days. Granted the Tahoe is older and I would expect problems to start happening...

  • @sav7152 This truck had some weird issues due to a leaking windshield, the water would travel down the 'a' pillar and drip onto the back of the fuse box causing all kinds of stupid stuff. It also has a similar ABS issue that I believe to be caused by a speed sensor that is starting to go bad.

  • Looked hot in there!

  • If it was just a switch. You'd be suprised what kind of stuff you and can find at your local pink-n-pull. That's IF you have something like that around where you are. Lot of em are don't allow your own picking anymore due to liabilities.

  • @Michiganborn1969 To be honest the head unit was not that expensive comparatively and now that I know that the switch can be replaced separately I'm sure it wouldn't be that bad.

  • Awesome Vid Thanks for that, I have a 98 sierra 4X4 has the same dash I haven't had to rip into it yet but when I need to I will know which pannel to take off to save time :)

  • @TNT66613 My work is done. Thanks for the comment.

  • But if you can afford a new switch I'd go that route!

  • Those bulbs are a pain in the butt... i have a screen in my car that is backlit by those very bulbs.

  • Dand your good, for me that would be like trying to ignore a rake across a chalkboard lol

  • Hahaha I was laughing after you were examining the old switch you were like " hmm maybe I could have just cleaned this and it would have worked".. but mostly likely it would have happened again as I've fixed the power window switch in my '99 Deville like 5 times already. And it's always the contacts getting gunked up with dust.

  • @MrSoundQndn Well I'm learning too in my videos at times just like everyone else. Thanks for the comment.

  • Nice Video Eric, reminds me when my mother triped the battery on her 01' Honda Civic and it wanted a Security Code to reactivate, which she did not have neither dealer, so I attempted to take the stereo out to look for a number on the back of radio, or just replace it, if only Honda made it this easy! I had to Rip the Gear Shifter console out to get radio out, Pure waste of time.. Chevorlet all the way! :) Great Job!

  • @ownagesoft There is an easier way, just press 1 and 6 preset buttons at the same time and then turn the radio on, it will then display the serial number of the radio witch you can use to get the code from the dealer.

  • Comment removed

  • what kind of gloves are they? lol you say ... stay dirty and you wear them ahah :) but i know its nasty stuff oil and greese lol

  • @jazzy4me4eva I find the things I find inside the passenger compartment much dirtier than an engine compartment. They also help prevent those little annoying cuts you might get doing this work, sort of like having an extra layer of skin.

  • Hey, leave that fan alone! I wish I was always high! LOL!

  • @gjmvi Your silly, funny, but silly.

  • why gloves?

  • @nicoeatsnow why not?

  • Comment removed

  • @nicoeatsnow It's like an extra layer of skin to help with those nasty cuts you might get doing this work. In addition to that I think the inside of peoples cars are much dirtier than the engine compartment.

  • great video

  • I'm surprised the problem was not the blower resistor, which usually involves similar symptoms. It's fun to watch a plan come together.

  • @mss829 Well if the blower ONLY worked on high you could buy into that theory but in this case the only speed no matter what you selected was high, this indicates a switch problem most times, it could also be a short in the wiring.

  • GREAT video, but that fukin BEEEEEP sux

  • @LTNitrorider Yea, lots of comments on that one, I just tuned it out, I'll do better next time sorry.

  • LOL I'd rather try and swap out a clutch on a FWD than tear into the dash! My climate control temperature "Slider" wont move...I've put off tearing into the dash for about 2 years now! Sadly my Speedo is going out as well, and I'm pretty sure the problem is at the "speedo side" of the cable (It's an 86, sadly no VSS) . Hats off to you man!

  • @nightmathzombieethan Yea that doesn't sound like much fun. You might check under the dash for the cause of the lack of movement as the other end of the cable usually ends up under the glovebox, you might be able to free it up from there.

  • @EricTheCarGuy Cool, thanks for the pointer!

  • Stopped by!

    Les

  • @bigblockmustang Hi Les, sucks we don't get the chance to talk like we used to. Good to see you just the same.

  • BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!!!­!!!!!!!!!

  • @EndlessT I know, sorry.

  • Great video. Nice discovery work.  Keep 'em coming!

  • Nice to see that after 16 years, Chevy still used the same beep.

    My dad has a '83 S10.

  • @cvilla198 Lots of comments on the beeping. I had an 87 S10 for a bit, it had the 2.8 though, I think I would have been happier with the 4.3.

  • Eric.Dude.You Need To Get a Electric Screw Driver Man.Thumbs Up on the Vid!!

  • @mickeygovender

    That was a socket he was using.

  • @818infinite I know m8.Sockets can be used as well on it.you normally get adapters with the good ones.Makes life So much easier.Just a thought.

  • @mickeygovender

    Ahh, true.

  • @mickeygovender I have one, I use my cordless drill.

  • kool

  • Try removing a 2007 mercedes benz e class dasboard, A pillars, drop the steering rack, radio, climate control, gear shift surround, instrument binnacle, glove box, heating ducts to replace an ac evaparator then you'll sweat balls!!

  • @foxdmulder I've done it on a BMW in someone's driveway and I know EXACTLY what you mean.

  • @rlewis1946

    If Eric got that part at a dealer, they will not refund money on electrical parts. Trust me I tried and then I fried. Once you by an electrical part from a GM dealer its yours forever.

  • @Michiganborn1969 Dealer or not that is pretty much the policy of any auto parts supplier for electrical parts. Most of them are special order and they don't want to eat the cost along with the shipping so they pass it on to the customer. You would think this would cut down on people just throwing parts at things but it doesn't.

  • Oh Jeez. Remind me of replacing my Air Blend Door Actuator during 100 degree weather. Cool thing was I only had to remove the stereo and glovebox. But I dont regret doing it myself. I was quoted 400-900 dollars and I ended up just paying for the 35 dollar part on Amazon.com.

    Love the videos, Eric and glad to see you're still rocking that Peter Pan shirt.

  • @mtlh05 Sounds like you won that one. To be honest I really don't think about the clothes I wear as a fashion statement, I just put stuff on that seems appropriate for the situation and I only have a couple of shirts that I use when I fix cars, I don't even look really, I just put it on and head out the door. Perhaps I should invest in some new ETCG apparel, that would be cool.

  • Can you disable that "bell"?

    That would be a usefull vid, not that your others aren't.

  • @Jeffmtbr I should have done that as I've had a LOT of comments about it. I've learned to tune that stuff out so I didn't even hear it.

  • Man,you were sweating balls!

  • @Jeffmtbr I could stand to loose a couple of pounds anyway.

  • at 6:00 forwards...IIIIIIIIiiiiiiiii

  • Ooops.... if that switch is individually replaceable, I take back my rant.... And yes, I should have watched the whole video instead of stopping at 8:05, and beginning my rank...

    "It is better to be thought a fool, than to open ones mouth and remove all doubt....)"

    RL

  • @rlewis1946 Happens to me all the time, thanks for going back and watching the rest of the video you saved me some explaining. Thanks for your comments.

  • OK a small rant... Up until 8:05 I thought you needed to replace the switch... not the whole module!! This module was designed to be replaced at high cost and significant margins. On the other hand, little or no effort was made to design a module whose mechanical components - the ones most likely to fail - are capable of being individually and easily replaced .  I know this is old school thinking and not consistent with "modern" design and marketing. By the way, what did that module cost? RL

  • cool vid, don't ever think I'd be working on a Chevy though lol. But, same thing happend to my 93 Accord's HVAC vent selector switch, when I pressed the buttons the vents wouldn't move, I found the control unit thingy and took it apart, turns out the contacts were all gummed up, just like this one, causing the motor that normally turns the vents to not function. Cleaned them up w/ a very fine sandpaper lightly and put some contact grease on there and it was good as new! Saved myself about a $100

  • @kai21787 I'd say you saved more than $100 if you count the labor. Thanks for the comment.

  • GREAT VIDEO ERIC

    THANKS

  • @1elAguila Thanks for watching and the comment, I'll have to get you do do some Spanish translations for me so I can reach more of my Latino friends.

  • @EricTheCarGuy sure eric i am all ready recommendent you on my channel amigo

    keep up the good work.

    thanks

  • I really love your videos, but those rubbergloves makes me more and more curious, I don't see any grease or oil there, it almost looks like you are going to do a rectum examination. or maybe you are just like me, a creature of habit. P.S. kip up the good work "and stay dirty"(-;

  • @drammensveien1 I've gotten used to them over the years. I wear them for this kind of work mostly as an extra layer of skin and to be honest the inside of peoples cars are much dirtier than the inside of an engine, I don't even want to get into some of the stuff that I've found.

  • Oh and I almost forgot, on that same 94 Ranger that I replaced the bulbs, I got so annoyed by the doorbell/key alarm I just simply disconnected the relay for the alarm witch was under the drivers side dash since I was under there anyway. Saved my sanitiy lol.

  • @Michiganborn1969 I've learned to tune things like that out.

  • Oh and also the last time I had to replace dash bulbs on a 94 Ranger I didn't just replace the bad ones but changed out all of them. Since some dashes are more of a pain in the ass then others to take out & put back together. I'd hate to have a few months go by and have the bulb/s right next to the origianal ones go out and have to tear out the dash.... Again. The bulbs on that Tahoe are already 11 years old, but you never know, they my not burn out for atleast 3 -5 more years.

  • @Michiganborn1969 Good point.

  • Great GREAT video Eric! About 20 years ago I was in a vocational school for tv/vcr repair and I remember correctly that switch is more properly called a variable resistance rotory switch, the power supplied to the device on the lower settings is the same as the high setting when the resisters in the lower settings fail thus giving you HIGH on all settings...... I think lol. It has been over 20 years.

  • @Michiganborn1969 I did not know that, thanks for your input.

  • @Michiganborn1969 He said he checked the resistor and it was OK. I thought the resistor for that circuit was pretty big, not a tiny dial. I don't think that little dial is big enough to dissipate the heat generated by resistors needed to work that circuit. That tiny dial looks just like a rotary switch, with the resistors deeper in the dash. The problem had to be right at the switch, otherwise it wouldn't have worked to just change the switch.

  • Oh yeh, they make it easy to get a tahoe's dash off.But if you have a cavalier you have to take the hole god dang thing off.

  • @PoliceWillProtect You should try German cars, now THAT would be a video.

  • duh! 

  • Ahh the life of a mechanic sweating listening to locus and loud long beep

    You also got to be a electronic tech.

    Great video keep them coming.

  • @ncrdisabled It's not a bad life really, I'd hate to have a real job.