I am working on the power window regulator for a 73 model. Opened up the door panel and found part of the gears chewed up. Repaired the gear in the door opening (unbolted the regulator and slid it into the the regulator access door, without removing the assembly). Fixed with one of those gear repair kits. This actually worked pretty easily. Now that everything is back together, I am dealing with the spring. There was not one in place when the door was opened, so I ordered a new one. As I place it on the center of the regulator, the spring fits easily over the lip that creates the tension. If I turn it over 1/2 a turn, there ain't no way I will ever be able to pull it around 1/2 turn to get some real tension on the spring (by the way, the window is in the up position, which allows for the least pressure on the spring). My other options are to disassemble the whole regulator to create enough play to attach the spring (not an appealing option) or to alter the spring to create more tension. I am toying with the idea of getting out a torch and bending another spring catch about an inch or so up the line. I guess another possibility would be to try to unwind the spring enough to get some tension at the current catch point.

Anyone dealt with this problem?

 

It is not 100% clear if you have put the regulator back into the door and then trying to install the spring. If that is the case - it ain't going to happen.

When I serviced my power window system recently I put the regulator base (the part the motor bolts to) into my wood working vise then pulled/rotated the long arm of the regulator to install the spring. Once the spring is installed, insert a bolt and nut through the hole to keep the regulator in about the 1/2 down position to install back into the door. Once installed, then remove the bolt/nut.

 

I agree with BTAL on your spring issue. Go ahead and remove the regulator to install the spring, its not that bad a problem getting it back in. There's only 3 screws holding the motor in place and they are easy to get to and remove with a ratcheting end wrench...7/16 I believe.

Out of curiousity, what kit did you use to repair your gear? I've heard that the stainless replacement gear will chew up the gear on the motor.

 

I bought the bolt on type of gear tooth repair. Time will tell if it chews up the motor gear. Thanks for the advice - will remove the motor and regulator bolts - try to install the spring.

 

make sure the regulator is in the full up position when you install the spring. It compresses when you power the window down. Thats what helps push the window back up.

Jim

 

Be careful, whatever you do. The edges of the regulator are sharp enough that if you get your finger in between the arms and the spring decides to "unwind" you'll be known as "Stubby" from then on..

 

I just raised the regulator to the top, carefully got my arm inside and the spring went right on. works great.