Charger Vacuum headlight actuators, how should they work?

[70Sbird]

Hello everyone,
These are actually for a Superbird, with the vacuum actuators from the '69 charger. My info shows I should have the 2926961 actuators, and I do but they don't work (very well anyway).
I've purchased a reproduction set of headlight actuators for a 68 Charger to replace them with. In bench testing the rod does not extend when vacuum is applied to the front (rod end) "tube". My original actuators extend with vacuum applied to this connection.
Are the 1968 and 1969 actuators the same? I have found part numbers of 2857910 and 2889883 for 1968 actuators and then my 2926961 for 1969, but my question is are they the same? and should the rod extend with vacuum applied to the front fitting?
Thanks for any help!!!!!

[resq302]

From what I have heard, they all are interchangeable however, I think they changed the size or strength of the magnet for the 1969 model year.

[1969chargerrtse]

From what I have heard, they all are interchangeable however, I think they changed the size or strength of the magnet for the 1969 model year.

Magnet?   Aren't they 100% vacuum?

[70Sbird]

They are Vacuum operated but there is a magnet inside of them that appears to hold the rod in the "closed " position.
You have no idea how tempted I am to smash one of these darn things open with my handy BFH just to see what they look like on the inside!

[resq302]

Scott,

Don't do it.  I already took one apart trying to fix the pod only to find out I had a tear in the diapgragm.  I can try and take some pics tomorrow.  These are fairly easy to rebuild if there was someone out there that would just make a new diaphragm for them and the accordian boot that goes over the shaft.  I know that repro pods are made but they are a little too rich for my blood when these seem to be able to be rebuilt fairly easy.

[1969chargerrtse]

Scott,

Don't do it.  I already took one apart trying to fix the pod only to find out I had a tear in the diapgragm.  I can try and take some pics tomorrow.  These are fairly easy to rebuild if there was someone out there that would just make a new diaphragm for them and the accordion boot that goes over the shaft.  I know that repro pods are made but they are a little too rich for my blood when these seem to be able to be rebuilt fairly easy.

I'm a believer in the  "give your extra parts away to help others" program if you pay shipping.  I have an extra I think NOS pod for a 68 or 9 if you need one.

[resq302]

I am actually good on pods now.  I got two from a friend a year or so ago to keep on hand as spares when the one took a dump.