GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Vacuum-actuated doors regulate airflow control through the HVAC module. Outside air is either cooled or heated and then discharged according to the control setting.

In case of vacuum line/harness leakage or hose collapse, replacing the entire vacuum harness assembly is not necessary. Use the following procedure in order to repair the hose:

  1. Cut the hose.
  2. Insert a plastic connector.

Use the following procedure in order to replace an entire hose:

  1. Cut the hose off at the connector.
  2. Attach a new hose directly to the vacuum solenoid control assembly.

Vacuum System

An engine vacuum is stored in the vacuum reservoir in the engine compartment. The engine vacuum controls all air valves except the temperature valve. The vacuum is routed by a vacuum switch in the control assembly to any of the vacuum actuators. One vacuum actuator is linked to each air valve.

The mode control knob controls the vacuum switch in the control assembly. The vacuum switch performs the following actions for each mode control knob position:

    • Directs the engine vacuum to specific hoses
    • Vents the remaining hoses to normal air pressure

The following actions occur when a hose vents to normal air pressure:

    • The vacuum actuator's internal spring expands.
    • The spring holds the associated air valve in one position.

The force of the vacuum performs the following actions when vacuum routes to the hose:

    • Overcomes the internal spring pressure
    • Moves the air to the opposite extreme of the air's travel

This process allows the control knob to position the air valves for the selected operating mode.

Ducts and Outlets

A system of ducts and outlets directs air to the passenger compartment. Inspect the following components for obstructions if poor air output exists:

    • The defroster
    • The heater
    • The air conditioning
    • The vent ducts

The following items are obstructions:

    • Leaves
    • Dirt
    • Objects that may have fallen into the ducts from the passenger compartment