AC/Heater blower assembly: dirty upper inside screen/foam “filter”

[thobry]

I was able to remove the blower fan/motor I’m in my 1998 4runner and like many of you, I too found some debris; twigs, acorns, etc.

Once I cleaned the fan out I took a look up, inside the assembly and could see what looks like some kind of foam “filter” that is degrading into bits. It’s hard to tell if I can replace this foam. Its also hard to tell if these can be removed. I’ve had trouble finding any information about this specific issue on the internet. It seems like these should be replaced.

Does anyone know how to replace this 20+ year old foam?

 

[phattyduck]

That's not a filter, that's the door that selects recirc or fresh air. The foam is there to seal around the edge and probably absorb a bit of sound.

-Charlie

 

[raKnizek]

This must be the tiny black bits that fly out of my vents if I haven't used the fan in a while...

 

[HiLife]

That door seams to part of the housing 8713035110 $468. Look like a pita to replace the foam. Maybe it can be done.
Just like only replacing the motors in the door actuators instead of replacing the whole actuator.