Mode door actuator cam alignment

2013 CHEVROLET MALIBU
79,000 MILES • 2.5L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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THOM T
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  • 1 POST
One of the HVAC door gears was stripped and needed to be replaced. Because of the location it’s hard to tell what the proper alignment should be when I replaced them. Do you have a diagram showing me the positions of the gears when installed? The proper alignment so the defrost works.
Aug 4, 2025 at 6:41 PM
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STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Yes, the gear has a little notch on it so that must be aligned with pivot gear. Here is a diagram to help with the repair. Check out the images (below). Let us know what you find.
Aug 5, 2025 at 9:46 AM
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JUSTKNOE1122
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  • 4 POSTS
How.to.line up perfectly
Jun 25, 2026 at 2:24 AM
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JUSTKNOE1122
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I cant seem to line upproperly to get the defroster door to open and blow feet works face works not defroster
Jun 25, 2026 at 2:26 AM
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JUSTKNOE1122
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  • 4 POSTS
I camt seem to li e up.properly to get the defroster door to open and blow feet works face works not defroster
Jun 25, 2026 at 2:26 AM
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STEVE W.
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 15,200 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Generally I'll grab an inspection mirror or a camera and use that to check the alignment if I cannot see it. However if you have the feet and dash but not the defroster you may have a damaged mode cam or mode door. What has been done so far and is your vehicle the exact same year, make and model?
Jun 25, 2026 at 5:39 AM
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