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I just replaced the Mode Servo in my 2003 RX300. I installed the Dorman 604-917. Tips on the thread were very helpful, especially using hose as a screw starter for the 3rd hidden screw. Problem is the plastic tip on the cam of the servo strikes the cam on the HVAC assembly when going n and out of Defrost vent. It makes a distinct pop when the 2 cams touch. It appears the servo is about 1mm too short. Is this an installation issue or an off spec aftermarket part?
Welcome to Club Lexus!
+1, posting info & tips on your 1st post, cheers!
I just replaced the Mode Servo in my 2003 RX300. I installed the Dorman 604-917. Tips on the thread were very helpful, especially using hose as a screw starter for the 3rd hidden screw. Problem is the plastic tip on the cam of the servo strikes the cam on the HVAC assembly when going n and out of Defrost vent. It makes a distinct pop when the 2 cams touch. It appears the servo is about 1mm too short. Is this an installation issue or an off spec aftermarket part?
One trick I have learnt from pros is to put the new and old part side by side and match them from all angles (sides). 1mm my need actual measurement but the trick has helped me transfer parts which in my haste I would have discarded.
Update: I purchased an OEM Mode Servo and replaced the Dorman with it. Now everything works as designed. The Dorman servo has a smaller gap between the metal post and the plastic tip. This smaller aperture causes the "pop" as there is not enough clearance for the linkage to pass. Although I hate to pay the full price for the OEM part, it was worth it as now the HVAC works perfectly.
just like to say I’ve add issues with my 2002 RX300 mode service for years, have just gotten around to fixing it thanks to this thread.
I believe the problem is the worm gear being pushed forward on the shaft such that the locking tabs no longer engage, so the worm gear no longer turns. The sound you hear is the engagement tabs hitting the edges of the notch.
I’ve threadlocked the worm gear onto the shaft and tabs, and glued a 2mm piece of plastic to prevent the worm gear moving. There is an indentation to the housing where the worm gear was pressing, once this wears down after a few years the slipping starts.
I know this is an old thread but with all the 1st gen RXs on the road, you're probably going to run into this issue. I’m not sure why people have been having problems getting out the dreaded "last screw" but I can tell you with certainly that with a stubby Phillips screwdriver, it was not a problem at all. I have a 2002 RX and maybe they made it easier on this model. I don't know but I was preparing for the very worst and can tell you it was a piece of cake. I checked with Lexus for the part and they wanted $195 for the OEM and $200 to install. I did a week of research and found a highly rated knockoff on Amazon. I figured I'd try it and if it didn't work I'd return and get an OEM as this grinding noise was driving my wife batty. I found a highly rated one called "CBK Climate Control Damper Servo for Lexus GS300 1998-2005, RX300 1999-2003 3.0L 87106-30371" for $18 delivered. I installed in under 30 minutes and it works as good as new. No more clicking and no more grinding. All for $18!
my 2c:
The access problem is due to the refrigerant piping/plumbing. Due to variation in manufacturing tolerance the pipe may be more in the way for some RX.
05-29-22, 01:58 PM
