98 explorer heater

i have a 98 explorer limited with digital controls. What occurs is a
variation in actual temp. Heater will be set at 80 degrees and works fine
for about 3-4 min. But, after this time, the temp drops. The digital
readout still says it is at 80 but cold air blows. Is this a sensor
problem or thermostat issue?

Could be a real expensive issue! My '98 just went to the always hot output on
"vent". Dealer says it is a $500 repair unless they have to remove the whole
dash then it is a $1,200 repair!

Could be that dreaded Blend door problem. Not sure since I didn't have
electronic controls but the blend door should be the same. (I had a 98 XLT
with about 60K I think) On mine the actuator that turns the blend door to
adjust the heat setting into the cab was stripped out, sometimes it would
stick to giving me hot air or then cold. The assembly doesn't cost much but
the labor involving pulling the dash is the killer...


"cabnboy" > wrote in message
lkaboutautos.com...
>i have a 98 explorer limited with digital controls. What occurs is a
> variation in actual temp. Heater will be set at 80 degrees and works fine
> for about 3-4 min. But, after this time, the temp drops. The digital
> readout still says it is at 80 but cold air blows. Is this a sensor
> problem or thermostat issue?
>