A/c Evap Drain Grommet (Fixed), But Now I Have Other A/c Problems (&#3

[mcallan]

Looking for some experienced advice on how to fix a climate control system problem:

Like many others, I discovered a completely saturated carpet on my 07 GS350. I learned here that the cause was a plugged evaporator drain and managed to remove the stupid grommet myself (without lowering the transmission and exhaust, by the way; If anyone wants some tips on how to do this, let me know). Another shortcut: to dry the carpet, I simply cut out the 4 floor carpet sections neatly with a razor. I stuck a dehumidifier in the car and aimed 4 big fans at the floor for a couple days, and then powerwashed the carpet sections. They dropped back in neatly enough after drying out in the sun for a few days.

First things first:Come on, LEXUS - REALLY?

Current problem: Right after the grommet removal, the AC started acting funny. I noticed that sometimes it would take few seconds to turn on (not always), the air would not come out of the vents, and it would indicate a strange temp on the display. Now after a week or so, this happens ALL the time, every day:

- It takes about 15 secs for the AC to come on at all. When the car has not been sitting for too long, it will come right on.

- Temp setting comes on at 75F, not the last setting (sometimes it shows 32 at first).

- At least some of the directional servos do not work, so air does not come out of the dash or floor vents. It does seem to come out of the defrost vent when selected, though. I've been driving around for weeks without a center console just so I can get some cool air directed near me.

I've seem some other posts with these symptoms, and the AC amplifier has been implicated. So I replaced it (with a used one presumed to be Ok) But no luck, this did not change anything.

The timing says this is somehow related to the evap drain issue, but I can't imagine how. I did first poke around at the interior A/C components to see if I could get to the grommet that way, but I don't think I messed anything up. I checked a bunch of times for loose wires and blown fuses but don't see anything wrong.

Anyone have ideas?

Thanks!

[Muwka]

Hi,

can you please share you method, in detail, of getting that grommet removed? I have a 2006 GS430 and first discovered my carpets completely soaked in summer of 2011. At that time I took the car to my mechanic who lowered the tranny and blew compressed air in all the crevices from underneath. Also pulled the carpet on the passenger side and blew compressed air around there. Seemed to help for a year but I just noticed that the carpet is getting wet again. I see the water drops in the passenger side footwell. Thanks in advance!

Michael

06 GS430

[mcallan]

Here are some details about removing the grommet:

Raise the car up as much as you can, crawl under it and reach up and around the top off the tranny. I think the right (pass) side had better access. Use long, curved needlenose pliers to get to it. Then grab it and just yank it out.

The trick is to use a flexible inspection mirror and a good bright light (or 2) on the other side of the transmission so you can see where it is and when the pliers are near the grommet. An inspection camera with a flexible lighted would be even better. Didn't have one at the time, but have since picked one up at Harbor Freight Tools for $70 or so.

Its not easy, but it can be done. Your arm may be sore afterward, but its better than the alternative.