Re: '86 4000SCq...some tech questions

["Ken Keith" <ken.keith@specialdevices.com>]

VAH2OVW@aol.com wrote:
> 
> Gang,
 
> 2: This dealing w/the hvac system...no matter what setting I have the flap
> control set at...wheather it be to have warm air at my feet, going at the
> windshield, etc, I allways get cold air coming out the center dash vent.  Is
> it supposed to be that way?  If not, how may I fix this?  

It's supposed to be that way.  Fresh air unless the A/C is turned on, then it 
runs through the A/C.  Shut the flap at the dash if you don't want the air.
(keeps the driver alert, and keeps the air fresh if you smoke)
 
> 3: Lastly, how easy/difficult is it to change the rear suspensionon this
> vehicle?  I just ordered/recieved a set of Bilstein HD shocks and struts,
> Intrax springs, and all upper strut mounts, shock boots and bump stops.  I
> have access to a lift (I work for a Saturn retailer in the service department)
> and an alignment machine.

May I ask why you didn't get the Sports if you are putting lowering springs on 
it?  I hear they have the same valving, but are shorter to work better with 
lowering springs.  I have Sports on (one half of, in the middle of doing it) 
the front of my 4ksq, and will get them on the back.
 
> Is there anything with this particular vehicle I should look out for, and
> should expect to have to fix at approx 160,000 miles?

Lubricate your door handles inside, replace your timing belt and water pump to 
be safe, check the firewall where the clutch pedal linkage goes through for 
cracking, if you have lifter noise/ticking, pull the pushrod out of the vacuum 
pump on the side of the head (you can do without the extra vacuum "disclaimer: 
do so at your own risk"), replace lifters if ticking still.  I would replace 
all vacuum hoses, they're cheap, change the air filter by taking out the 
headlight, it's the fastest way, put fresh plugs/wires/cap/rotor in, advance 
timing until just before pinging under load to improve power.
 
> Thank you in advance,

Your welcome.

Off-topic questions for you, since you work at a Saturn service department:

The little light bulb behind the A/C button in my '94 SL2 burnt out.  The 
dealer says I have to buy the whole control assembly, as it is one piece.  The 
Chilton's manual I have seems to indicate the bulb is replaceable.  Is it, and 
how do I do it?

Also, one of the stamped little metal plates that screws on the back of the 
headlight and holds the bulb in place is somehow the wrong one (bought the car 
used).  This is not available separately, of course.  Do you know where I could 
find one of these, used or new?  This one holds the bulb at an angle.

Thanks,

Ken