[DML] Mode switch AC/Defrost modification

["stainlessilusion" <5n-@xxxxxxx>]

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While installing Videobob's LED center console lights (which are 
awesome btw!), I figured it was a great time to modify the mode 
switch to run the AC while in the defrost position. The interesting 
thing is-by the looks of things inside the switch- it looks like 
they were designed to run AC in defrost but never were
"updated". 
Anyway, it's very easy to do, and procedures are below for those
who 
are interested. I have a picture online but geocities has bandwidth 
limits so if it doesn't come up E-mail me. I have the same
picture-
but larger available, as well as the write-up below in a word 
document. If you need either of these or help on this just drop me a 
line.
Picture location: 
http://www.geocities.com/dansfeather/modeswitchmod.html

Modifying the mode switch:

Removing mode switch:
-Remove center console (#100683)
-Remove heat setting knob, mode switch knob, and fan speed knob
-Remove one screw holding AC "Fascia" panel to mounting frame
-Remove AC Fascia panel
-Remove one screw holding mode switch to mounting frame
-Remove the large rubber vacuum hose block from the back of the 
switch
-Maneuver the mode switch so you can see the 3 wires through the cut 
out hole that the 3      lights run through[fan fail, lock doors, 
defrost]
-Either write down, or remember the configuration of the 3 wires and 
remove them
-Remove the mode switch

Disassembling mode switch for modification:
	Note: Front of the switch=where the knob attaches to
		Back of the switch=where the vacuum lines attach to
The design of the switch allows it to be assembled only one way, so 
don't worry when you disassemble the positioning of the pieces.

-Unscrew the 2 screws that hold the diaphragm assembly to the switch 
and remove
-Remove the E clip from the shaft in the front of the switch
-Remove the shaft from the mode switch
-push on the front of the shaft while turning the large round white 
plastic piece in the back (under the diaphragm assembly you just 
removed). There is a notch on the shaft that corresponds with a slot 
in the switch assembly, when these align the shaft will push out. 
This will take a bit of force and I actually had to hammer it softly 
while turning the shaft. Take care not to lose that little metal 
ball that holds the switch in the selected position.
-Once you remove the shaft and parts that came with it, set them 
aside and begin modifying. (See picture)

Modifying the switch:
All I did was cut a small section from a flat male connector, put it 
in that convenient little slot and soldered it in to the connector 
as you can see from the picture. My soldering job wasn't
beautiful 
so I had to file it down a little. I also wanted to spread out the 
solder as much as I could so it would hold better and reduce the 
chances of breaking. Take care while soldering, don't let the 
connectors in the switch get too hot or you'll melt the plastic 
underneath and the studs that hold them down.

Reassembly:
This is reverse of how you took it apart. As mentioned above, the 
switch can only go back together one way with all the notches and 
ways the parts fit, so it's impossible to put it back together 
wrong. Put some grease on the contact surfaces inside before you put 
it back together. It is easy to strip or crack the plastic while 
screwing parts together too tight-so be careful.








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