HVAC Mode Actuator

Hi,

If it is clicking again, it sounds like the gear internally has failed again. Did you use an OEM part? Also, when you had the actuator out, did you check if the door was easy to move?

Let me know.
Joe

Thanks for the reply, Joe, used an aftermarket part. Did not check the door manually. It did work well for about a month. I used a 9v battery to align the gear on the actuator prior to installing it. Hope that didn't mess it up...

Hi,

You didn't cause it. Using a 9v battery won't hurt it. If you don't mind, did you get the part online? Do you remember the brand name? The clicking is almost always an indicator that the gear in the actuator is bad.

Let me know what I can do to help.

Joe

It is a Dorman part bought from AutoZone. I'll buy one from the local Ford dealer. I didn't do that originally because I had read they were defective. Other than aligning the gear, is there any calibrating or resetting the HVAC that needs to be done after installing? Thank you.

Hi,

There are no relearn procedures for the mode door. Nothing is listed in the manual. Also, when you remove it, leave it plugged in and change the air flow direction to see if it moves. Gently place your thumb on the gear and see if it starts clicking.

If it does, make sure the door can be moved easily.

Dorman is usually a good company to deal with. I'm surprised this happened. However, if the gear is bad, return it for a refund.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Hi Joe, pulled the Dorman actuator out and found the spline had separated from the gear. The spline stayed in the airbox when I pulled the actuator. Looks like it snaps in and has a little slot it fits into. You could see breakout in that slot allowing the spline to spin inside the gear. Manually moved the door through all modes. It was a little stiff in defrost but got easier as it moved towards the vent. Installed the Ford actuator and cycled it through all modes. Everything's quiet and working again. Hopefully it stays that way! Hope the door isn't too stiff causing the actuator to break. I really don't want to change out the airbox! Thanks for all the help. Let me know if you think there is something else, I need to do.

Hi,

First, thanks for the update. Based on your original description, I had a feeling the actuator was the problem. What you described sounds common. I wouldn't have expected that brand part, but it happens, I guess. I remember a time when the parts all had three letters on them, USA. And yes, there were still issues, but not nearly like today. lol

As long as you are able to move the door easily, it should be fine. However, if anything changes, let me know.

Please feel free to come back anytime in the future if you have questions. You're always welcome here.

Take care,

Joe