RE: Heater side vents not working

["Jack Smith" <roadtrip999@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Matt - The side vents on the dash are not connected to the heater. They are
fresh air only and draw their air from the airbox at the base of the
windshield. Also, with the right heater control at the bottom or "off"
position, it blocks off the airflow out of the heater box altogether, hence
the labored sound from the fan. Don't run the fan with the control "off."  A
couple of things to know about the heater/fresh air system. You need to keep
the drains clear.  If the two drains from the windshield base air box get
plugged, water will accumulate and literally cascade out the side air vents 
in
the pax compartment. It's really quite dramatic when it happens. Those two
drains run through the side kick panels. Check to ensure they're clear and 
the
hose is not deteriorated and leaking. That can also cause leaking into the 
pax
compartment floor and cause rust outs.  In extreme cases where owners have
neglected their cars, water can even spill into the heater box, accumulate,
and rust out the heater motor.

Bottom line. Keep the drains clear and in good condition. While you're at it
check the two drains at either end of the drain channel for the convertible
top. If they've never been changed, I'll bet you'll find that they're 
leaking
and in very poor condition.

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