Blower/AC issues in a 81 280zx

Blower/AC issues in a 81 280zx
Okay, lets see if I can say all of this right. Basically, I have Ac (the compressor works and cools) but the blower will not fire up. I have removed the blower and tested it, it works fine. After talking to a few mechanics I decided to replace the relay for the Blower Motor. This did nothing. I don't have a meter of any sort to measure amps (likely will have to get one soon) but I do have a voltage light. After testing the wires leading to the blower I have found that power is getting to it, just very little. Also, as I dial up the blower to high, the voltage drops off. Now without an amp meter, I understand that I am only seeing half the picture here, but shouldn't a higher setting mean a higher voltage? If anyone out there has any advice for me I would love to hear it. I would rather not have to take it into a shop and see them rip the dash apart and trace wires.

  Payj

Sounds like the blower motor resistor has gone bad. This is located on the evaporator box (and protrudes into it) up under the dash. The blower motor resistor protrudes into the evaporator so that the blowing air will keep it cool. The evaporator box is next to the blower motor (just down stream). You should be able to locate the resistor by finding a wire harness that connects to the evap box (it will have something like 4 wires). Any connectors with two wires are not relevant. Then, undo the screws on the plate that holds the resistor and pull it out. Note; you do not need to disassemble the evap box, simply remove the blower motor resistor unit. I'm not sure how to test it but I imagine you could jump the connector and if the fan works then assume the resistor is bad. Good luck!

  Macc

That did it, thanks so much. It took me a while to get to it but I managed to bypass the resistor and get the blower running on high. Maybe I will be able to find a new resistor for it someday.
Thanks again.

  Payj

Glad you got it solved! You're more than welcome and we really appreciate you posting back a follow-up unlike some people! Posting a final result helps advice givers hone their problem solving skills and definitely helps others with a similar problem. You should be able to get that resistor at an auto parts store. If not the dealer should still have it (last resort, salvage yard).

  Macc