1997 850 HVAC Distribution Fault

[smickler]

Hello all, this is my first foray into the E31 section so apologies if I missed a common fault diy or explanation here. I’ve been looking for an E31 for a while now, and think I found a good contender today. The only glaring fault I noticed right off the bat is that the AC only blows out of the driver side vents, the right center vent and passenger door vent had zero air coming out. I did try different fan speed settings, enabling and disabling auto for both sides, and yes I’m positive I had the controls for the vents set to open. Has anyone else ever seen this happen? Any ideas as to what the culprit could be? I appreciate your input! Thanks,

Dan

[toomanyparts]

I believe the flaps can and do get stuck. This has been documented by a few folks here. If you are going to have a shot at fixing it, I think you may have to pull the dash. Perfect time to replace other AC items and the heater core.

Other causes may be stepper motors, but it may be as simple as some of the plastic plumbing being loose - they more or less fit by friction and with open cell foam seals. I found my drivers side one half connected in the foot well and it wasn't too bad a fix.

If that is the only fault, I saw go for it and dive in when you get the time.