@dc42 Thanks -- I ordered an L298N control board. It does seem to solve my issues. I found a good tutorial
I don't know the current draw of these motors, I will check it on my multimeter, must be very low though - the motors are no bigger than my pinkie
I did learn that the linear actuators are rated for 12V but we are driving them now with 24 V -- I just ordered a DC 24V to DC 12V 10A 120W Step Down Transformer. I think those will solve my problems. I will use the transformer for the l298n board and the motors.
Thanks for pointing me to this solution
Van