How do you replace the Rivet that holds the spring on the power window setup.
Is there a special tool needed? Also, when installing a new spring, is there a pre load that needs to be set? :hurray:

 

As far as I know, there's no way to preset the tension since the rivit has a rectangular shaft where it goes through the window regulator. So it doesn't matter which way you put it in, one way is 180 degrees off from the other but the rivit is symmetrical.

To get it off, I chocked it in a milling machine and milled the back of the rivit off then just punched it out. To get it back in, I drilled and tapped the back of the rivit and held it all together with a screw and lock washer. Haven't had a problem yet!! (Gotta love the shop in the basement :D ) I think the Corvette parts catalogs sell a rivit kit for the regulator, so you won't need the heavy machinery.

Good luck,
Matt

 

They sell the rivet kit but looking at it I cannot see how one would flatten out the back side. Has anyone replaced one of these using the kit? :hurray:

 

I cant believe no one has done this. I cant be the fiirst !! :hurray:

 

Good question, I don't how you'd flatten it either :confused: . TTT

 

I am in the process right now myself. I am planning on dropping a spot weld on it.

Spook
:reddevil

 

If the rivet is split on the end you normally peen the sides of the split over. Just tap and work them into position. Don't smash them with one or two blows but tap them hard enough to move them and try not to have to hit to much to avoid work hardening them. Check for instructions on the Zip site, I think they have the window rebuild in the tech section. :seeya

 

The rivet is solid on one end and split on the other. The split is for the spring to rest in. I have found nothging on this in the service manuals other than they suggest it be changed with the spring. Not sure how to proceed. :hurray:

 

I came across a tech article on a web site that told how to replace the spring, rivet, and gear but now I can't find it. I will keep looking and will post it if I find it.

 

I replaced the springs and rivets on mine about a year ago! I've never seen an article on it, no repair manuals say anything more than remove it, and reverse the process to reinstall. (no help at all !)
I used a socket on the backside of the rivet and a punch to pop it out. Tried to put new rivets in..... had to use 1 old one because the new one was too small to fit the rectangular opening! Used a chisel and punch set to spread and flatten the rectangular side out and it worked just fine.
I ordered rebuilt motors a couple of months ago because mine wouldn't lift the windows all the way up without pulling up with your hand and it made no difference at all ------------ I then realized something had to be done with the springs !!! I had 1 of the springs in backwards and neither side preloaded !
You have to make sure the springs push the window upwards and does not pull it downwards ! You also have to preload each side by spinning backwards 180 degrees and then slipping the spring on and pulling back around to catch the gears of the motor ! I slipped a small bolt in to hold the gear in place -- then installed the arm -- bolted in place, then slipped the motor in place -- then the cover plate & bolts ----this made it easier than trying to shove the whole thing in in one piece ! I used a small vanity mirror leaning inside the door so I could see what I was doing. Hope this helps ! Rick