I was so glad to see this thread. Having the exact same problem in our 98. I just went out removed the panel. Don't have great access cause I can't take the seat out right now.. But I was still able to push down the blue lever and get it to switch over, over course it popped right back up, but at least it's blowing cool air out of the vents instead of burning hot air. I'll have to look at it closer perhaps this weekend if I get a chance to take the seats out. | 
