I've not done an explorer but when removing the whole assembly from a mustang I had to drill out rivets. If your new parts really only go in the motor you may be able to just remove the motor and not the whole assembly. Again, that was my Mustang experience when the nylon gears wore out, I only pulled the motor to replace them, not the whole assembly.
This is copied right out of the 1992 Helm shop manual
Explorer, Front Door Removal 1. Raise the window to the full-up position, if possible. If the glass cannot be raised and is in a partially down position, it must be supported so that it will not fall into the door well during motor removal.
NOTE: On vehicles equipped with EEC, when the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, some abnormal drive symptoms may occur while the EEC processor relearns its adaptive strategy. The vehicle may need to be driven 10 miles or more to relearn the strategy.
CAUTION: Prior to motor removal, make sure that the regulator arm is in a fixed position to prevent counterbalance spring unwind.
Installation 1. Position the motor and drive to the regulator and install the three sct~ews snug, not tight.
NOTE: Appropriate plug buttons may be installed to cover the exposed hole at the trim panel edge, if necessary.
Connect battery ground cable.
Check the drain holes at the bottom of the doors to ensure that each is open to prevent water buildup over the motor.
Check out the following web site; there's a section on replacing the power window motors.
Good Luck, Mike
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