replacing the defrost actuator

[mark'stb]

I'm reading the shop manual and it says to remove the dash to replace the defroster actuator. Any tricks to replacing the actuator without removing the dash?
Thanks
Mark

 

[Mooseman]

AFAIK and the a/c control issues 2005 TB (Front actuators/diagram) , you shouldn't have to. I know they say to do that for the passenger temp actuator because of a brace that goes over it but can cut the brace around it to get it out.

According to this post, the defrost actuator is doable without taking the dash out.
https://gmtnation.com/forums/threads/hvac-actuators-and-dash-removal.2156/#post-62621

 

[Matt]

No you don't have to remove the dash. Just remove the knee bolster on the drivers side. Get into the foot well on your back and you should be able to see all three of the actuators on that side. The defrost is the closest to the firewall and one of the easiest to replace. You'll need a 5.5mm socket for the screws.

 

[m.mcmillen]

You'll need a 5.5mm socket for the screws.

A 7/32 socket is the same as a 5.5mm if you have one and not the other.

 

[mark'stb]

Thanks for all the replies.