my car is a 1997 i was checking codes and found hvac b0361 in history
i have no problems with the ac. but when i reset the code it comes right back. i think the code is for the left side act. where can i find this in the car and is it easy to replace.
thanks
mitch

 

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Hello Mitch,

Greetings to you, my friend. In regards to your AC issue, I gladly offer the following insight to help you remedy the AC trouble code your DIC is alerting you to: Mitch, you are correct in that you are coding for a persistent malfunction found common to the C5 AC system, and, most specifically with the left side actuator (HVAC B0361 = "Left Actuator Feedback Short to Ground").

Basically, the HVAC control module is responsible for commanding the Left Temperature Air Actuator door and switch positions to move by actually controlling the voltage supplied to the circuit itself. The purpose of the switch is to maintain the selected air temperature. The Left Temperature Air Actuator is noted as faulty and needing actual replacement if this actuator is failing to read and maintain proper voltage signals for maintaining temp selection.

Hence, replace the Left Air Temperature Actuator (GM Part # 16163982 with dual zone A/C). Warning: It is important to inform you that this specific part has been recently upgraded and changed (several times) by GM to the now new reference and current GM part #89018365. Frankly, I have found this particular part to retail from $129 (at Corvette America) to much higher at any nearby Chevrolet Dealership. Therefore, do a price comparison.

Now, in regards to what the actuator looks like, you have several immediate options: Frankly, I keep Corvette America catalogs within reach because this mail order facility prints some of the best exploded and detailed pictures of many integral Corvette mechanical systems directly from the GM Parts Data Base Dealership Catalogs. Thus, in the most recent aftermarket Corvette America parts catalog (dated 2004), go to the Corvette '97-'04 parts section under "C5 Heating and Air Conditioning". And, on page 444, you will see a great diagram depicting numerous AC parts with Corvette America part numbers. Look at part number 38387. This is the Left Air Temperature Actuator. This actuator is located deep and high to the left side of the main AC center vent box located high in the center console. And, is accessible by actually removing the underside steering panel cover that our knees bend up against under the actual steering column.

After removing this knee bolster panel, look high and deep to your upper right next to the air box. And, you will notice a gold metal retaining tray. Unbolt this tray and you will then better see, and, have more access to the oblong shaped black plastic actuator. Unbolt the the two main gold screws on the plastic actuator, and, pull off gently (the actuator is actually a large modified plastic plug with a five pin plug similarly seen in computer hardware). For an additional, and, even larger visual picture of the location of the actuator, you may want to call up any Chevy parts department and provide them the GM parts number listed above. Then, request that they fax you a parts diagram of the AC system with a picture of the actuator to your fax number from their computer parts screen.

Mitch, I have been an Corvette motorsports enthusiast for several decades. And, it is a pleasure to share helpful mechanical service, and, cutting edge product information and insight with all our Corvette brothers and sisters who research this wonderful and supportive forum for all their Corvette service concerns. Please PM me if you need any further feedback. And, I would be happy to contact you.

Keep On Waving,
Eden

 

So where do you charge your AC from? There are two fittings one by the battery and one by the water pump. The one by the water pump is larger than the one by the battery. I assume the one by the battery is high side (between compressor and evaporator) and the other is the low side (between the compressor and the condensor). Which port???

Thanks

 

eden thanks for your reply i am going to call chevy today .great info!!!
mitch

 

Hi Mitch,

Thank you so much for your positive reply. Frankly, I have had to deal with this problem myself. And, I am more than happy to share such experiences. The insight gained may prove helpful to any and all on this forum. Thanks again.