98 Escort SE Blower Fan Problems

Sorry to make yet one more of these blower motor posts, but most of the other ones I've searched for and read here seem to indicate there's a "resistor block" that typically gets damaged to the point that the blower no longer blows. I've checked all the interior and underhood fuses, but really have no idea where these resistors are located. Two screws to remove the block? I don't see or feel 'em. Must be missing something. I've replaced the blower motor. Still no air. Can someone please help me out now with a few more specifics before I try to replace the switch? Thanks.

Here is a thread that may be helpful...

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=522416

Also, check the wiring to the blower motor...in my 93 1.9L, it was corroded and some of the insulation melted. And you're confident the replacement motor is functional?

Thanks for the thread link. In that thread there is mentioned a relay as being the possible culprit. Where is it located? Under the hood in front of the battery? If so, I've checked wiggled and tapped on those but would, assuming I even knew which one, have no idea as to how it could be tested. The switch is the other possibility but it's difficult to get to and it's expensive. Hope it isn't the switch. Do you think I might actually have to buy a repair manual for this thing? :rolleyes:

Hi, RE, Your 98 escort blower motor problem, If the blower motor STILL does not function at ANY speed, AND you have not found the resistor block yet, The resistor block is next to the blower motor and has a multi connector that plugs on to it, What usually happens is, The MAIN 12volt lead gets hot and the plastic melts around the spade connector causeing a no contact situation. While you are there, 2 screws/hex head hold the resistor block in the heater box, remove the resistor block and check to see if any of the resistor coils are broken, rusted, burnt, Hey just replace it, You can get the resistor block and multiconnector kit from your local ford dealer, Or perhaps cheaper at autozone if they stock them....GOOD LUCK... Clay..

Clay,

Thanks so much for the clarification regarding the resistor block and the 2 screws that attach it to the underside of the heater box assembly. My connectors were not melted but there was some obvious bluing (from heat) of one of the coil rheostats and some darkening (again, from heat?) of what appears to be a capacitor/resistor on the assembly as well. $18.21 at Ford bought me a new resistor block/rheostat and now the fan blows better than before! :) Given how easy this was to fix thanks to your help, I regret putting it off for so long.

Thanks again for the info.

Hi, Glad to help, Thanks for the thank you......They are few and far between...That's what keeps me checking out the problems in the forums...See Ya, Clay..