A/C - Musty Odors
Article No.02-21-15
10/28/02
CLIMATE CONTROL - MUSTY ODOR FROM CLIMATE CONTROL
LINCOLN:
2000-2002 LS
ISSUE
Some vehicles may emit a musty odor from the climate control system. This may be caused by the starter cable tether restricting the Cowl Plenum Drain Passage.
ACTION
Adjust the starter cable tether away from the Cowl Plenum Drain Passage and remove any accumulated debris. Refer to the following Service Procedure for details.
SERVICE PROCEDURE
1. Remove the Fresh Air Inlet Duct. Refer to Workshop Manual, Section 412-01.
2. Inspect the Cowl Plenum Drain Passage for evidence of blockage by the starter cable tether. The tether is red in color and should be plainly visible through the drain passage. Refer to Figures 1 and 2.
NOTE
IT MAY BE NECESSARY TO REMOVE DEBRIS FROM THE PASSAGE THAT MAY HAVE ACCUMULATED TO GAIN A CLEAR VIEW OF THE TETHER.
3. If the tether is NOT visible, do not continue with this article. It may be necessary to check that the evaporator drain is operating properly (free of blockage) (Figure 1).
4. Only continue with this article if the tether is visible through the drain.
5. Disconnect the battery.
6. Raise the vehicle on a hoist and remove the right front wheel & tire assembly.
7. Remove the rear section of right front splash shield. The shield is attached with a Phillips screw at the rocker trim panel, and several push-pin fasteners located inboard and at the top.
8. Remove any debris trapped around the red tether, the starter cable, the stud area and the cowl plenum drain passage.
9. Remove the starter cable stud cap and loosen the cable retaining nut.
10. Rotate the starter cable counterclockwise approximately 90 degrees so that the red tether loop is pointing left/sideways, or at the 9 o'clock position when looking into the stud. This provides maximum clearance from blocking the drain hole (Figures 2 and 3).
11. Torque the starter cable retaining nut to 9 Lb-ft (12 N.m), and install the stud cap.
12. Install the splash shield and wheel & tire assembly. Torque wheel lug nuts to 100 Lb-ft (135 N.m). Lower the vehicle.
13. Install the Fresh Air Inlet Duct. Refer to Workshop Manual, Section 412-02.
14. Inspect the Cabin Air Filter for evidence of trapped organic debris, heavy dust and moisture damage. Replace if needed, part number XW4Z-19N619-AC.
15. Reconnect the battery.
OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE
WARRANTY STATUS: Eligible Under The Provisions Of Bumper To Bumper Warranty Coverage
OPERATION DESCRIPTION TIME
0221115A Inspect Cowl Plenum Drain 0.6 Hr.
Passage For Evidence Of Blockage
022115B Inspect Cowl Plenum Drain 0.9 Hr.
Passage For Evidence Of
Blockage And Adjust
Starter Cable Tether
DEALER CODING
CONDITION
BASIC PART NO. CODE
14305 43
OASIS CODES: 208000, 208999
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