Central locking issue.

Right, my 300tdi-Auto-none EDC is fobless so this is a key based problem.

Without the actuator the door unlocks and locks fine, with the actuator in place it'll lock but won't unlock. I've replaced several of the hoop retaining clips and tried the actuator in various potitions.

The lock itself and looks in gwo with no broken pieces or worn parts. The actuator fires without issues if moved manually so i'm thinking there may be a worn section in the locking mechanism.

Does the actuator do anything else apart from the CL? If it doesn't then i'll just do without central locking for now.

Ta.

There's a fine line with the adjustment of the actuators fixing plate a few mil out and it only unlocks go the other way and it only locks... I had file the plates holes (elongate) once to get one spot on.
But Maplin do a 5 wire (u only use 4) replacement, you will have to make your own connections to the disco door wiring or get a S/H item off e-bay.

That's it with the actuator just CL.

in that case i can see it coming out, the actuator works as it should, but i think the links to it are worn out or jamming.

You don't want sloppy linkage as that's no good either

this is true, i think what will end up happening is i'll take out the whole mechanism and replace anything thats worn... after i've done the MOT.... timing belt... gear box seal and filter... boot floor and anything else this disco throws at me lol.