2003 Dakota repeated resistor failure

[traciandlisa]

Hi there, we have a 2003 Dakota and the heater motor resistor keeps burning out. We have replaced the fan motor once and the resistor 4 times since Nov. Does anyone know what else could be wrong or what we can replace/fix. Any help would be appreciated.

[jpb53]

Check the resistor connector for any discoloration or burned pins. Replacement connectors are available. Test all pins at resistor connetor for resistance to ground. You will have to cycle the blower switch through all positions to ck the resistance through the switch to ground . A new motor will pull about 15 to 17 amps.

[traciandlisa]

Thank you very much for that info, the pin connector is starting to look bad, but we thought it was from the resistor melting. Could you tell more on how to check the resistance to ground? We are picking up the connector tomorrow. Also, the fan motor was "new" to us, picked it up at the auto salvage.

[jpb53]

If you go to the caravan or intrepid sections on the first page of each forum you will find a link to online manuals. You can follow the link and get the wiring diagram for your truck if you don't have one. The best way to check the ground circuit is with a test light that is powered from the vehicle battery and check for a good strong light at each pin. When you check it at the resistor connector you will have to check each pin separately and move the blower switch to each position. If you don't have test light you can use a dvom; but with that you are not putting a load on the wire. When you test it with a meter you have to disconnect the battery. Checking it at the resistor connector you are checking the circuit through the switch all the way back to ground. The blower motor is supplied voltage when the key is on and the ground is supplied throuhg the switch to the resistor.