Looks like this threads been quiet for a while, time to add a new member to the HVAC swap club...
I just performed the plenum swap in my new to me 2013 Tradesman dually 4x4 using mpgrimm2's custom spec'd wire harness. Added the 8.4 back in January and got the wire harness for the a/c configuration shortly after that. Installed the harness in Feb, along with the module, 7 speed resistor and temp sensor. The dual zone control panel, 8.4 unit, and temp sensor came out of a 2016 1500 sport. The harness was opted for dual zone control and ATC. Last week I finally pulled the dash and swapped out the plenum from the same truck. Parts cost me about 600 for all (8.4 head unit, ATC sensor, bezel w/switches, and the plenum.) plus the harness and a/c module. Been running single zone ATC since Feb and all has work flawlessly.
With FL days fading to hellish temps I figured it was time to go for it. Lucked out and got a cool sunny day last weekend, did the swap in about 6 hours, this included cleaning out the dander and critter hair from behind the dash, ducts, and firewall. Took my time on the installation because I needed to splice in a feed for rear underseat lighting from the dash. This is alot easier to do when the dash is on the seats...
Dash was out in an hour, plenum out 1.5 later Those damn heater hoses were a ***** taking out solo, and the heater core tubing was fused ( read "melted") to the firewall insulation. Installation would have been about 1.5 but I was waiting on my son to show up for the assist on the hoses, steering wheel and other odd stuff. I paid 80.00 for an evacuation and recharge at a local shop. Seemed pricey to me, but it was necessary and close by. No leaks, everything is working good as OE. Having done this, I know now that swapping this stuff is a walk in the park. If the heater core or Evap fail I'll do the work myself. Neighbor dropped by and left his jaw on my driveway after the plenum was out. Said I missed my calling in life. Have to admit, threads and resources like this are invaluable to the average shade tree mechanic. Thanks for the inspiration! ,Shawn
Note the seat and steering wheel control options on the 8.4 display. This was made possible by another mpgrimm2 harness.
4 speed with RA1, stock tradesman configuration.
On the 6.7 diesel this pesky 10mm nut is located behind and under the coolant bottle.
Total fluid loss on the ground. Didn't need to clamp the heater hoses, a very small amount dripped inside th cab, mainly during the re-installation.