Eating Mode Actuators

[Smitty454]

2001 Silverado

 

Original mode door actuator to control defrost stopped working so I went ahead and replaced it with a mid range replacement from rock auto. Not A/C Delco. I figured it would last at least a couple years. Well it lasted a couple weeks. 

 

Went to Napa to get a replacement from their line. 3 year warranty so I figured that's not too bad. Well it lasted about 3 days. 

 

I popped open the actuator and a broken gear fell out. 

 

Is there a reason why my actuators a breaking on defrost?

 

I plugged the actuator back in with the cover open and the gear removed and it does work. 

 

It seems like this is a mechanical issue with the gears. 

 

I know AC Delco is what is recommended and I almost always buy a Delco for most things but I have a feeling that the gears are going to bust even with one of those. 

 

Does anyone have any ideas on this one?

 

[richard wysong]

Does the thing the actuator connects to move freely thru all ranges? Possibly something like a pencil went down the defroster and is jamming the door

[Smitty454]

No, Ive articulated the door and the gears and everything operates as it should. 

[swathdiver]

Our experience is that aftermarket actuators leave a lot to be desired, if they work at all.  Stick with GM OE/ACDelco.

 

Buy once, cry once.