Has anyone actually paid to have the blend actuator replaced if so what was the cost in parts and labor as I just don't want to do this but I also want to pay a reasonable price but have never encountered this on any vehicle I have ever owned.
I feel the cost to take it to a garage would outweight the benefit of it being someone else's headache. I'd expect at least an hour of labor, just because it is a pain to reach. So that alone you're looking at $65-$95 an hour depending where you live.
Drink a few cold brews and do it yourself. Then drink a few more as you're doing it because you're aggravated. Finally, finish off with a couple extra for a job [mostly] well done.
It's not difficult, just a pain to reach. RunningSlow (Josh) made a fancy little tool to help do this job.
I can't speak for others, but it might be possible for you to get someone at the upcoming Meet to do it for a reasonable price. I can't make it there myself this year, but details of the meet are in viewtopic.php?f=35&t=46453
It's in Clinton Twp, a little over an hour from you in Hazel Park, pretty much next door for you.
I just did this last weekend. It's tough to reach, but doable. It took me about 15 minutes. The trick is to use a very small wrench that you can use with one hand. I have a bunch of "midget" wrenches that came with my craftsman set.
If I were to get a tool for this, I'd probably get a wrench with a ratcheting box end. I had a socket and ratchet but had to do it purely by feel since I couldn't both see and get my hand in at the same time from the glove box opening.
Don't forget the flip-the-sprocket trick - no new part required.
And i doubt a shop would charge just an hour -- my guess is that they'll start talking about removing the dash. Lucky you're near the meet!
One of times mine broke I set it to fresh and then disconnected the electrical connector. I can't remember the last time I used recirc.
I don't know if the fresh/recird door tends to default to one position or another if the actuator is removed, or if it swings freely depending on its mood.