I have done some searching on the forum and the internet, and I can find threads about putting OEM door lock actuators into non-power doors, but I can't find the info I'm looking for. In the threads I found where people had installed them, they mentioned that the door lock actuators don't fit due to the door ajar sensor being in the way, but that they just had to get the right type and they fit right in. Apparently there was a specific type for power lock models and non-power lock models. That's great info, but nobody listed what the parts were... At least checking online, none of the door lock actuators are listed as non-power lock models.

I had installed aftermarket power locks on my truck in the past, but they are now making a terrible grinding noise when they lock. I got some new actuators, but the wiring colors are different, and after installing one and fiddling with it for about an hour I just can't get the damn thing to work the locks properly. The actuator moves the door lock rod, not the actual latch, so they torque the rod and cause it to bind, then the lock actuator can't tell if the door is unlocked or not and makes a god awful racket, unlocking/locking the doors repeatedly. I am about at the point where I'm going to have a professional install some actuators, and pay out the nose to do so, or just skip the power locks altogether.

So, with all that said, does anyone know from experience which parts I need to search for, or possibly even have part numbers? I have the existing wiring in the doors from the universal kit, so I assume I could just use that with the OEM actuators...

For reference, I have a 2009 Ranger sport 4X4 with the V6.

Thanks in advance!

 

Just to clarify from your first paragraph - are you sure it's the actuators that are different on power lock models? It sounds like it might be the door ajar sensor that you need to swap (and that's definitely available in two versions from a quick search at RockAuto).

 

That's a good question. From what I read it sounded like there was a different actuator, but you may be correct about the sensor. I also just checked Rockauto, and it does appear that there are two sensors, and the power lock model is at a 90 degree angle compared to the non-power lock model. That sounds like the correct solution, smart thinking.

On a related note, do you think I can use the wiring for the universal door locks I already have installed to operate the OEM actuators? I assume I would just need to figure out which wire is open/close and attach them directly to the actuator.

 

Okay, so as an update, I went and picked up the door lock actuators. I have installed the passenger side actuator so far. I will need to order replacement door ajar switches, but that is an issue I will deal with in the near future.

My current issue is this: The existing universal door lock actuators were 5 wire on each side. For the passenger side I simply used the two lock/unlock wires and taped over the other sense wires. It worked just fine. Now, the issue is that on the driver's side there are the same 5 wires for the actuator, and an additional two wires (lock/unlock signal from fob I assume) coming from the alarm system, which are wired in parallel with the SENSE wires for the lock actuator. I am at a loss for how I can wire in the OEM 2 wire door lock actuators using these 7 wires. Does anyone have any ideas?

Cheers!

 

Just as an update for anyone trying this in the future: The door lock actuators fit perfectly, it's the door jamb (door ajar) switches that need to be replaced with ones for use with power actuators. I used part number AW1024, and AW1023, which are available from Rockauto.