Problems with Drayton mid position actuator

[Rooney1111]

Hi, I have a Drayton MA1 mid-position actuator which I think has failed but would appreciate views. My hot water seems to run OK but I have no central heating. I have removed the clip-on actuator and can turn the valve to either side OK by hand. I cannot move the black button on the actuator and when I removed it a small spring fell out, also there's something loose inside it as it rattles when shaken. Is it likely that the actuator has seized and if so would I be wasting my time replacing the synchronous motor, also is it logical that the central heating pump doesn't come on if the actuator isn't turning?

Thanks in advance.

 

[tamz]

You've broken it. New head time i'm afraid.

In the meantime until you get it fixed. Leave the head off and turn the silver spindle (the bit that is sticking out) slightly with your fingers. That will give you heat and water until it is seen to.

 

[Rooney1111]

Thanks for that, I've tried running it with the actuator removed but the CH pump doesn't seem to run???

 

[PlumbBobBob]

as tamz said you need a new head. the pump wont work without the working as there are micro switches which have to make to power the pump.

 

[Rooney1111]

Many thanks for that! I have now removed the actuator and believe the problem may just be the synchronous motor which is fairly cheap to replace - it's actually quite hot to touch! Is there any way of telling if it's just the motor - everything else seems to move quite freely now it's removed.

 

[buckley plumb]

Many thanks for that! I have now removed the actuator and believe the problem may just be the synchronous motor which is fairly cheap to replace - it's actually quite hot to touch! Is there any way of telling if it's just the motor - everything else seems to move quite freely now it's removed.

would not bother with just the motor get a complete head - buy the iflo one from city plumbing its cheaper and its a drayton realy

 

[Rooney1111]

Many thanks to everyone, have now replaced the actuator and all is well! I tried to get the Iflo one and although it was a bit cheaper than Screwfix it was a further 20 miles away. By the way Screwfix were cheaper than Plumb Centre or PTS!

 

[nsmally68]

I have the same issue with my heating, but it comes on full even with the thermostat turned down. I have recently fitted a new Drayton mid position head and the problem still exists. Are there any checks I can do with the head to see if this is working correctly? If I remove the head and turn the heating on then adjust the thermostat on and off, should I see the actuator in the head move?

 

[Subby]

New thermostat