97 Astro warm air and stuck hatch

[kidshawn]

I have a 97 astro. Just got it with a brand new crate engine.
A/C was blowing warm for I added freon. Today it blew cold and by the evening it's already getting warm?? Leak I guess. Also how can I open the rear hatch if the button only seems to release the passenger side
drivers side won't budge..

Help as this is my 1st van

Thanks,
Shawn

[astrobob]

Sorry to hear about your ac! I can help you with the stuck hatch though. 1) First put the rear seat down and go sit in the middle looking out the back window. 2) Look at the handle that you use to close the hatch. carefully on each side pry off the cover to expose the screws on each side and remove them. 3) Take off the trim screws on the bottom and side of window panel, you can leave the top ones on. 4) Carefully remove the trim out of the way and you will see the lock actuator. look for the rods that go to the right and left side of lock on the hatch. Look for the rod that is not connected to the actuator and reconect it and your problem will be solved. If you do not want to do this again go to the dealer or part store and buy the grommet that is worn out and replace both of them and you will be good to go for a long time.

good luck!
astrobob

ps: gromets cost less than a dollar if I remember correctly

[kidshawn]

Originally Posted by astrobob

Sorry to hear about your ac! I can help you with the stuck hatch though. 1) First put the rear seat down and go sit in the middle looking out the back window. 2) Look at the handle that you use to close the hatch. carefully on each side pry off the cover to expose the screws on each side and remove them. 3) Take off the trim screws on the bottom and side of window panel, you can leave the top ones on. 4) Carefully remove the trim out of the way and you will see the lock actuator. look for the rods that go to the right and left side of lock on the hatch. Look for the rod that is not connected to the actuator and reconect it and your problem will be solved. If you do not want to do this again go to the dealer or part store and buy the grommet that is worn out and replace both of them and you will be good to go for a long time.

good luck!
astrobob

ps: gromets cost less than a dollar if I remember correctly

Thanks Alot ! I will try this and let you know soon..

Thanks Again,
kidshawn