How to Install an Actuator on a 2008 Z71

The window actuator of the 2008 Z71 Chevrolet Suburban is located within the doors of the Suburban. If the actuator malfunctions or is damaged, you will not be able to lower or raise your vehicle's window. In this situation, installing a new actuator is the best solution because it is relatively inexpensive. Installing an actuator on your 2008 Z71 is fairly simple and should not take you more than half an hour provided you have the appropriate tools.

Instructions

1

Open up the hood of the Z71 and use a socket wrench to disconnect the battery.

2

Remove the six black plastic grommets from the edge of the door on which you will be replacing the actuator. Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry them out

3

Pry out the armrest from the door with a flat-head screwdriver. Remove the screws from the window/lock operation mechanism and disconnect its wiring connector.

4

Peel off the door's watershield. You may need to use a flat-head screwdriver to loosen it at first.

5

Remove the door panel from the door to reveal the actuator. Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry the door panel off of the door.

6

Remove the window channel bolt and slide the window up out of the door.

7

Disconnect the actuator's wiring connector by squeezing its plastic tabs and pulling it off the actuator. Disconnect the actuator linkage and remove the six bolts securing the actuator to the door. Remove the actuator from the door. The actuator is found in the middle of the door, just below the window. The linkage is the long metal component connecting the actuator to the window channel.

8

Install the replacement actuator and reattach the bolts. Reconnect the linkage and reinstall the window and window channel bolt.

9

Reconnect the actuator's wiring connector and reattach the door panel. Reattach the water shield.

10

Reattach the armrest and window/lock operation mechanism. Reconnect the mechanism. Reattach the screws and the grommets. Reconnect the battery and close the hood.