That was fun and telling, here are the results.
Tested from wiper to one side of rheostat - Nice even resistance change from 17 ohm to 5000 ohm.

Tested from wiper to other side of rheostat - 5000 ohm to 17 ohm.

Tested from Voltage in Run (hot) to Ground - 12V with key on.

This tells me the rheostat is functioning properly and that I am getting the required voltage.

Since the actuator isn't moving - it is faulty, both my original AND the one I purchased on ebay.

Now - I think I can test the actuator by connecting 12V to "Voltage in Run" Ground to Ground and connecting a jumper across wiper to either side of the connection that would go to the other side of the rheostat, but just to be sure, I am going to dig up a rheostat and connect it properly.

Will post back.

Bottom line is, I need WORKING blend door actuator.

Paul