Blower motor resistor

art1966
Wed, 12 Feb 2014 19:06:18 +0000
Maintenance/Repairs

Helping a friend with his 2002 Dodge Ram 3500 van (engine unknown, but I think it doesn’t matter). Blower operate only at highest speed setting. OK, that’s the classic symptom of a failed resistor. Replacements are readily available at chain parts stores.

1. Where is the resistor located? This video shows me for a 2002 Ram 1500 van. Will it be the same on the 3500?

2. I’ve learned here that sometimes resistor failure results from bearings going bad in the blower, causing excessive current draw. Is there a way to test that other than with an ammeter? What’s the correct current?
2a. If the blower motor is going bad, is that something we’ll be able to replace ourselves? (Yes, I should tell them to get a Haynes or Chilton.) I don’t like the idea of taking off dashboard panels.
2b. Is there any other “prime cause” I should look for if the blower motor seems OK?

3. Are there any other parts (other than the switch) whose failure would also give that symptom?

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