Heater motor question

[johnf]

I got the Excel back on the road recently, been sorned since last November. When I switched on the blower (non air con) it blew the fuse, I suspect it was a bit sticky with not being used for a while. Anyway, I've replaced the fuse and now the motor only starts to spin if I put it to full power and then step down the fan speeds, the first fan speed doesn't work at all.

Any ideas as to what is going on ?

Thanks,

John

[amarshall]

There's a resistor pack with different resistances for each speed. Sounds like one of them has burnt out.

[hodders]

There's a resistor pack with different resistances for each speed. Sounds like one of them has burnt out.

That was the only thing ever to go wrong on my Civic, and a common problem. Never happened on the Excel.
See:
http://www.lotusexcel.net/phpbb/viewtop ... f=7&t=2658

[johnthebass]

There could of course be a contact problem within the fan speed switch. After 20 or so years the contacts will doubtless have tarnished or collected dirt leading to a poor connection. Dependant on year model there appear to be two types used according to the parts manual. Rotary pre '86 and lever thereafter. You could try squirting some switch cleaner into the body of the switch and repeatedly turn or move the control for a few seconds to work in the cleaner. Try using some
"Servisol Super 10" switch cleaner. This comes in a 200ml aerosol complete with a length of thin tube to get it into confined spaces. It is available from electronics part suppliers like Farnell, Rapid Electronics, RS Components etc and is about £3-4. An alternative solution would be to remove and dismantle the switch if possible and "clean" the contacts with some very fine (600 grit or above) wet-and-dry emery paper. The "Servisol" cleaner has many uses in cleaning contacts in a variety of situations! There are other similar products available but if you have any difficulty obtaining this please PM me and I can arrange to send you a can!
John.