whimpy power door lock actuators.

Aug 06, 2006 4 Replies

Greetings.... I searched failed door lock posts and didn't see anyone having the same problem I'm seeing. I have a 2000 Mustang and the power door lock actuators (both sides) are so weak they cannot "flip" the lock mechanism. I removed the actuator from the passengers side, connected it to the harness and pressed the lock/unlock button a few times. I noted the thing has barely enough power to move the little swing arm, much less flip the lock mechanism. It just sorta groans in each direction. I find it difficult to believe that *both* door actuators would go out at the same time!! The lock mechanism itself is clear of anything binding. The battery in the car is brand new, power windows work fine. I do not have a service manual for this vehicle, are the door lock actuators powered directly from the 12V system or is there a power FET in a control module somewhere?



Also, the convertible top leaks around the back glass. Is there a special adhesive to repair or just plain ol' silicon



Is there some gummy lubricant on it somewhere?

Have a top shop fix your back glass. Generally, they don't repair well and a replacement is in order. I had the skirt come loose on my 95, they used an adhesive on it that did hold for a long while, but though the areas repaired stuck, the rest began coming loose in a short time.

Kate

"Dale" wrote in news:1154880504.853878.223000 @p79g2000cwp.googlegroups.com:

The door locks are controled by the GEM remote keyless entry system. Even if you are using the switches inside the car. The GEM controls the following functions:

warning chimes and warning lamps one-touch down window windshield washers and wipers battery saver illuminated entry with keyless remote entry interior lighting passive anti-theft

There are 4 fuses that could effect the locks: CJB Fuses:

39 (5A) 19 (15A) 25 (25A) BJB Fuse POWER WINDOWS (40A)

Good luck with it, if it isn't a fuse I'd go to the dealership and have them run some tests.

DW

I tested the actuators by connecting them (momentarily) to a 12V supply. Sure enough, these things have no torque what so ever. They moan a little, and the actuator does flip-flop, but no power. I put everything back together, minus the actuators, and I'll go powerless for now. I may try to take them apart by drilling out the rivets just to see what makes em' tick (they don't work anyway). Maybe when it cools down a little here in Hot-Lanta I'll screw around with it some more. Just for fun I may crank up the voltage until they smoke.. (I've been watching too much Mythbusters....)

As for the top, good suggestion.

Thanks,

DW wrote:

Pop the dust boot off them and spray flood the inside with spray brake cleaner to clean out any hardened grease and dirt and see if that helps any. I've had to do that before.

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