Replacing window cables

Eric,

Unfortunately, even the shop manual is deficient in this regard (re: my '90). I had one cable pull free of the end termination recently and had to disassemble and reassemble it, winging it as I went. It's a simple mechanical setup in that the drum winds and unwinds at the same time, creating a differential action that drives the window mechanism up or down. There are relief springs that create a controlled resistance as the limits are reached. When I took mine apart and the operation and repair became clear. If you are "mechanically minded well" this may be straightforward for you.

I recall that I used a clamp of some sort to compress the limit springs while reassembling the drive. This made life a lot easier as I didn't have to fight the springs; once it was done, I removed the clamp which applied the tension. If this is not clear to you right now, it hopefully will be once you get into the job.

Another suggestion is to remove the window glass and take the entire assembly out of the car. If you work on the bench, it will be much, much easier. I suspect that even without the workshop manual, it is straightforward to remove all this stuff. The workshop manual wants you to remove the weatherstrip and quarter glass; I did not remove either of these.

One word of warning: unless you are experienced at putting motor brushes back together, I suggest you do not disassemble the motor. I took it apart to check the condition of the brushes. FYI - at 160K+ miles, the brushes were fine. I suspect yours are too.

Ken

are you guys talking about power windows only? i have a stiff manual window and have yet to venture behind the door panel. tough i would just get a replacement assembly before i went in but it sounds like this may be reparable without any parts; that is unless you are talking about automatic windows only. thanks.