Power Window Puzzler
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 168
Likes: 0
From: Paris Ontario
Power Window Puzzler
The drivers window in my '84 didn't work when I bought it. The former owner supposedly replace the switch, and this didn't work. So the other day I pulled the door panel to take a peek. I hit the switch and the window went down, back up and up and down a few times before quitting again in the up position. I've ordered a new switch wiring harness and switches (the old ones looked worn) the old wiring harness was missing the plastic cover on the back, leaving it exposed.
Any idea what I should be looking for here? The window seems to work if/when it wants to. The old owner hadn't had the window down in a long time. At least I've been able to get it to move. I'm hoping the wiring harness will do the trick and a new switch. But I'm thinking there has to be another issue with this window. I don't want to go through the hassle of replacing the motor, when it seems to work okay.
Any idea what I should be looking for here? The window seems to work if/when it wants to. The old owner hadn't had the window down in a long time. At least I've been able to get it to move. I'm hoping the wiring harness will do the trick and a new switch. But I'm thinking there has to be another issue with this window. I don't want to go through the hassle of replacing the motor, when it seems to work okay.
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,908
Likes: 3
From: Supreme Soviet Peace-Loving Pipple's Kollektive of Seattle Wa
Drifting
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,538
Likes: 178
From: NE Ohio
2024 C4 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
Had that problem and had a friend who worked for GM. He said the wires break where they go into the door.( most common ). Mine had a bad connector behind the radio. He was good at what he did and experienced. I was ready to replace the motor. Confirm before spending.
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Racer
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 460
Likes: 1
From: Oliphant Ontario
If it isn't the wiring where it hinges, it could be the motor. Usually just the brushes in it. They get gummed and stick causing the motor to run only when it sees fit to do so. If you're adventurous you can take the motor apart and clean the brushes, commutator (shaft with all the copper pads) with 800 grit and clean the brush boxes so the brushes move freely. As long as there is enough brush that they can't **** sideways and jam you're OK. If they worn so short that they can turn slightly sideways and jam, it's toast.
By the way, do no oil the brushes, their boxes or the commutator, it'll work great a few times and burn out.
By the way, do no oil the brushes, their boxes or the commutator, it'll work great a few times and burn out.