If you take the plastic piece off that is just under the steering wheel, then take the metal shield off as well. Yes you can take off the black computer box. There are 2 nuts and you will need a good 9 to 12 inches shaft (ok stop laughing) to be able to reach it. Unhook both of the electric hook ups.
Take a look at the second picture and unhook that electric socket as well. I used a stubby phillips screw driver and that worked out well. So the screws are at the 1 oclock and 7 oclock positions. When you go to pull it out, it will still be connected to the pivot arm. The actuator has an external gear that secures to the pivot arm. The pivot arm also has a metal pin at the other end that fits into a groove that is on the blend door.
As long as you take your time and try not to get pissed off, you can have it done in 2 to 3 hours. Maybe even an hour.
If you can get the actuator from Advanced Auto or Auto Zone, it comes with a lifetime warranty. So if it happens again, you just swap them out. Plus, they both offer a MIL discount.
Yout got this Marine!!! Trust me, if a retired Air Force guy can do it, so can you.
O'B
2013 JK Sahara Unlimited
2.5 R.E.
Wheels and Tires next