[degibbo]

G'day,
I have the 451 HVAC unit out and on the bench, but have been unable to tear-down into it. It looks like the side switches have to come off first. The central air-knob pulled off with a bit of persuasion, and with the four screws out, the front face begins to separate, but only so far.

Has anyone been able to tear-down one of these and advise how it is done (without damage)?

Thanks,
Degibbo

 

[jwight]

This may point you in the right direction: Evilution - Smart Car Encyclopaedia

You may need to subscribe to see it all, but it's worth it.

 

[degibbo]

Thanks jwwight.

As it turns out I cracked it without damage. Not that anyone else is interested, but there is a bit of a procedure to make it easy (ish):

The side switches can be removed with a small flat blade screwdriver inserted alternatively in the two small rectangular holes either side of centre and pulling the switch plate up. This only works with the control switches in the centre position!

Next the centre air knob has to be removed, and the white actuating "rod" released at the two opposing barbs at the front. The rod then exits out the rear.

The rod has a bevel gear that actuates a rotary switch on the PCB via a plastic gear insert. Unfortunately there does not appear to be any way to key these together in the correct position (or it doesn't matter). I have yet to determine that, of if anyone knows, please advise.

Oh yes, the car won't start with the module un-plugged!

Cheers & thanks,
Degibbo

 

[jimvw57]

Great information! I am sure this will come up as these cars get older.