So you're thinking the actuator itself is faulty and when plugged in it is being closed? Should I be checking the current draw of the actuator with ignition on?

i forgot to mention. I put a test light across the terminals for the actuator and it lit up dimly, suggesting that the 8v didn't disappear, (I didn't have my multimeter connected at this point though). So as the voltage drops to 1v when plugged in to the actuator, could that suggest a high current draw?

Could I possibly adjust the screw on the back of the actuator to get it where I need it? It doesnt look like anyone has messed with it in the past though.