Parts express door lock actuators...

[kikboxr1]

I bought these door lock actuators from Parts Express...I actually had some previously installed but I had bought them on eBay. Well, my first set lasted about 2 weeks, and after getting the replacements in, they are acting funny as well. I can't install them the jrichker way because I tossed out the whole original actuator assembly with the mounting bracket last time.

Anyways, I've drilled new mounting points for them on the inside of the door behind the door panel, and they sit between the window and the door metal. For a linkage I just used what comes with the actuators and attached them to the door knob shaft thing.

The problem I am having is the actuators don't want to push the shaft up when I push unlock. I tested it without the linkage (i.e. without any resistance) as well, and it still is rough on the unlock motion. I noticed some black stuff on the inside of the wire - is it possible the wiring is corroded and I will have to replace a section of the wiring? I tested it with a digital multimeter, and both the lock and unlock wires show about 12.3 volts when the corresponding button is pushed, so I didnt think the problem was in the wiring since the voltage showed the same on both... And I didnt think it was related to the mounting position because the actuator has a tough time going up even when it isnt attached. Any ideas?

 

[jrichker]

Measure the voltage while you are using the actuator to move the door lock. Push the lock/unlock button & hold it long enough to get a steady reading. You should see the 12 volts both lock & unlock directions.

 

[kikboxr1]

I checked the voltage that way and got around 12.3 volts both directions (I figure that's right - I'm using a cheap DMM).

 

[HISSIN50]

im not sure i follow exactly (im tired). i would lube the linkage and the whole lock assembly. also, it sounds like your mounting is not totally rigid - it really needs to be. those little actuators have decent torque.
i bet you could get a U-shaped metal bracket at the home store and fab up something similar to the original bracket that held the oem actuator. just in case all else fails.

good luck.