HVAC actuator?

Tiny
CCHIM615
  • MEMBER
  • 2011 RAM 1500
  • 5.6L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 155,000 MILES
There was a pretty bad clicking noise coming from my dash and the A/C would go on and off with the noise. So, I searched a bit and found some answers. I opened up my center console and tested the defrost actuator and the vent actuator. They were both fine not shaved or anything, but I realized the white plastic rod the defrost actuator connects to is sticky I have to use a bit of force to move it. So, I tested it again with the actuator connected and realized the noise was because the actuator isn't strong enough to turn the rod. I've read that a broken mode door can cause this but before I tear my dash apart I wanted another opinion. What do you think?
Thursday, September 15th, 2022 AT 11:55 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

If you struggle to move the rod with the actuator removed, something is causing it to stick. Are you certain the plastic gear in the actuator isn't bad?

If you are confident the actuator motor is good, then you should remove the actuator and check the cause. I attached directions for replacing the actuator below. Hopefully, it will be that simple. I included both mode actuators just in case you needed them,

Let me know if this helps or if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Thursday, September 15th, 2022 AT 8:24 PM
Tiny
CCHIM615
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Hi, thanks for responding I messed with it and did a bit more research I was able to fix the defrost issue, just by opening up the actuator and turning the gears to the right side. But I realize that the actual issue is from the (passenger side temperature actuator) and right now I just don't have time to take the dash apart, a temporary fix I found is just put them on sync I still can't get relatively hot air on the passenger side but it fixed the clicking and random shutdowns of the A/C.
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Thursday, September 15th, 2022 AT 9:23 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

Thanks for the update and I'm glad you were able to fix it temporarily. If you find time and decide to replace the actuator, let me know and I'll get the info you need for replacement.

Take care of yourself,

Joe
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Friday, September 16th, 2022 AT 8:09 PM

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