Time to Replace the Blend Door Actuator (which one to order?)

[thamilto]

I've been listening to a 'tick tock' noise emanating from down below the heater/ac/vent controls for close to a year. For a while, it was a 'tick.... tick...' and now, it is a 'tick/tock, tick/tock'. I note that it makes this noise when both driver/passenger temp slides are in the 'blue/cool' settings and not when both/either are in the 'red/hot' settings.

 

I've watched a few youtube videos and it appears to be the 'blend door actuator'. It is the one that mounts on the outside of the housing that contains the blower motor. I know it is next to the motor since that is the video I've watched and that is where I installed a new blower motor back in 2013.

 

My question: Which part number do I order? ACDelco lists a p/n for 'left' (15-73952), 'right' (15-72971) and one that doesn't indicate left or right (center?): 15-73599.

 

I am seeing prices of over $100 for the right actuator (15-72971). I am guessing this is the one I have to order as demand must be high with all of the failures. Same price on Amazon and Walmart for the ACDelco part. I will also compare at RockAuto and Amazon.

 

NOTE: The dual zone controls in my truck are the 'sliders'. Two knobs that slide up/down for driver/passenger to go hot (up/red) or cold (down/blue). I am seeing some that reference 'for blue/red dials only'. Mine are not dials (not round). does it matter whether slide or dial?

[thamilto]

I've verified the 15-73952 is the one that is above the brake/gas pedals in driver's footwell area. The one that is next to the blower motor is the $100 part: 15-72971.

 

I have the floor console (for two beverages, cig/change cup and some space) that also has the built in armrest (captain's chairs). I gather this was an unusual option on LS extend cab trucks from that time as I also have the gray interior with leather front seats. No wonder I like this truck so much... it has features I'd have to step up to LTZ to get standard today

[thamilto]

Once I verified the ACDelco part 15-72971 is made in China for $100, I ordered the Dorman p/n 604-106 for $60 from Walmart. Walmart is my employer so I figured I would boost their ecommerce sales over using Amazon or eBay. Will advise how the repair works out.

[jcmd]

Interested in seeing how this works out. I have the same problem and have also been listening to it for about a year now, lol.

[swilliams1005]

Wait till you have to replace the one in the top of the dash that one is really fun ( bangs head on desk ) took me several hours to replace in my wifes 04 Tahoe the rest are easy