Blend Door Actuator?

[Johnny Glenn]

I've read several extensive posts on this prevalent problem. There are currently 1000 of these actuators on "emergency" order at Ford dealers and currently they are on back order. Ford has supposedly made quality improvements...but it will take awhile to rid themselves of these cheap parts they used a few+ years ago - hopefully the replacement parts aren't the same as the original junk?!

Due to the backorder - I tried using a part from Carquest and it worked only a few minutes. The heat began to work but when I switched to A/C - no luck. Took the actuator out and it wasn't turning? I've read posts about turning temp dial to cold before removing, plugging the actuator in before installing so it can align itself. Question I have is -- since the blend door is open for heat - should I leave temp setting on heat when plugging in and re-installing?? Thanks for any advice - I'm going to try the Ford Dealers again for part ETA and worst case try aftermarket again!?

 

[Johnny Glenn]

I called another Ford Dealer today and found they had two actuators -- even with nearly 1000 of these on back order -- some dealers have them in their inventory?! Will try to replace tomorrow and hope I'll have more luck than w/ the aftermarket part.

 

[Johnny Glenn]

This forum has helped me greatly as I buy/sell 5-6 Explorers a month and most of the time they need some minor repairing. (Minor) repairing if you DIY - replacing a blend door actuator I've read quotes up to $800!? The part is $75 and takes a few hours to learn and replace it yourself. Thanks to the "Explorer Forum"! PS - Aftermarket part is risky with this repair - eventhough Ford part is obviously lacking in quality - it fits properly.