Replacing the four wheel drive vacuum actuator on your 2000 GMC Jimmy is a relatively simple do-it-yourself job that can save you big bucks. This guide is designed to help you change a vacuum style 4×4 actuator on a 2000 GMC Jimmy. Similar steps can be taken to diagnose and replace the four wheel drive actuator on similar SUV’s and trucks. Before undertaking any do-it-yourself work on your vehicle make sure that you correctly diagnose the problem. This will save you time, money and plenty of frustration in the long run.
Diagnosis:
If your SUV or truck will not properly shift into 4-wheel drive, a bad actuator may be the culprit. If you have an electronic four-wheel drive engagement system, characterized by a push button system generally located on the dashboard, begin by attempting to switch your SUV or Truck into four wheel drive. If the lights on the cluster blink and the 4×4 drive does not engage, you may have an actuator problem. Blinking lights may also be characteristic of other four wheel drive issues, so proceed with caution. It is always best to check the original component thoroughly before replacing.
Equipment:
To replace the 4-wheel drive vacuum actuator on a 2000 GMC Jimmy you will need a few pieces of equipment. You will need:
1) a metric/standard socket wrench set
2) a set of socket wrench extensions
3) a replacement 4-wheel drive vacuum actuator
Check with your local auto parts stores to make sure that they have the correct actuator in stock before you begin. Calling a dealership should be your last resort as they charge considerably more for the same parts. For example, the four wheel drive vacuum actuator for my 2000 GMC Jimmy Envoy was priced at $200 at the local GMC dealership vs. $45 at my local Autozone.
Actuator Removal Process:
Begin by lifting the hood of your 2000 GMC Jimmy and locating your vehicle’s battery. The four-wheel drive vacuum actuator is located beneath the vehicle’s battery. In order to access the actuator you will need to remove your vehicle’s battery. Using a ½ inch socket, unscrew the negative battery terminal. Repeat with the positive side next. Next, using your socket extension, unscrew the retainer located at the bottom of the battery. The retainer is screwed into the tray that supports the battery. Lift the battery out and set aside. Be sure to handle the battery with care. After the batter is removed you will also need to remove the tray that the battery was sitting on. The battery tray is held in place by two bolts, remove these using your socket. After you have removed the battery and tray, the four wheel drive vacuum actuator will be exposed.
To remove the old four wheel drive vacuum actuator begin by locating the cable retainer clip. This is a small clip located on the front of the actuator. Depress the clip and carefully slide the cable out of the actuator. Next, using your socket, remove the nuts holding the actuator to your Jimmy. Once you have the bolts out carefully pull the small hose off of the vacuum actuator. The hose may be held in place by a small metal clip. If this is the case, use a small pair of pliers (needle nose work) and carefully compress the tabs on the clip and slide the clip down the hose. The entire actuator should pull out of your vehicle.
Checking the Actuator:
As I mentioned earlier, it is always best to check the original part before replacement. This ensures that you are replacing the correct part.
Checking the four wheel drive vacuum actuator on your 2000 GMC Jimmy is quick and easy. Holding the actuator in your hand, place one finger over the nozzle on the side of the actuator. While holding your finger over the nozzle depress the front of the actuator. If the actuator is free from damage you should not be able to depress the actuator very far. This is because the actuator works by vacuum pressure.
Next, remove your finger from the nozzle and depress the actuator all the way. Again place your finger over the nozzle and release the actuator. If the actuator is functioning correctly you should feel suction against your finger tip. If you do not feel suction visibly check the actuator for any tears or holes. If you do not feel suction proceed to the next step, replacement.
Replacing the Actuator:
If, after testing, you found that your four wheel drive vacuum is indeed damaged you will need to replace it. To do this begin by first screwing all of the new bolts into the actuator. This will help to guide the bolts when you reinstall the actuator on the vehicle. Remove the bolts and set to the side for the time being.
Next, reattach the small hose. Connect the hose and reattach any clips to hold the hose in place. After the hose is attached screw the actuator back onto the vehicle using your socket wrench. Next, reattach the cable to the front of the actuator. Take extra care to make sure that the cable is securely held in place by the retainer clip on the front of the actuator. Finish up by replacing the battery tray, the battery, and reconnecting the battery.
