Replacing cabin heater control cable

[ca44]

I recently replaced the heater control valve in my 1983 944 NA. It was stuck open. I now have it wired shut. When I was replacing it I noticed that the cable which opens and closes it will not move it through its full range of motion. I suspect what happened was the HCV got stuck and the previous owner damaged the cable by trying to force it closed. Does anyone know a procedure that I can follow which will allow me to get to the cable, determine what is wrong and possibly replace it?
Thanks you in advance to anyone responding.

[Slam]

You can do this by removing the centre console so you can get to the cable but it's (very) much easier with the dash out. Are you sure the cable is attached to the valve properly? Usually I put the clip on with the valve at its furthest throw, then make sure it's got the right range of motion on the controls in the cabin. Unless the cable is actually kinked there's virtually nothing that can fail on it. Except having it rust, I guess.

The actual throw is deceptively short. Have an assistant work the slider in the cab whil you push/pull the end of the cable by the firewall. Check to make sure the clips are exactly where they need to be. If you do need to replace the cable, duct tape the new to the old and draw slowly through the firewall.

[pfarah]

I had the same problem last year. Right above the reference sensors, you'll see the heat control valve, with a plastic arm. Carefully remove the metal cable clip that secures the control cable (I dropped mine which landed on the starter motor, hence, the car had to be lifted for retrieval), then, as Slam suggests, the center console may have to come out. However; try this before removing the console; remove the ash tray and you'll see two (10 or 12mm) bolts, remove the driver's side one as well as a couple of Phillip head screws on the left side console carpeted panel. If your car has the black cover (just to the left of the center console, a couple few inches from where your right knee rests while driving), that will have to come off. You should see the control cable and may be able to remove the second metal clip and manipulate the cable end off the switch lever. Then, simply pull the entire cable through the fire wall and inspect for damage (bends, cinks, etc.). Apply a good cale lubricant and move the inner cable wire back and forth many times to distribute the oil. It worked very well for me; I may have a couple of pictures for you if you want, just PM me.

Patrick