| Electric Rear-Window -- Preparatory Steps |
From "Weekend Mechanic"
episode WKM-209 |
|
|
|
advertisement
|
In this episode, Weekend Mechanic Bruce Bonebrake replaces the rear window in a pickup truck and replaces it by installing a power sliding rear-window. In the extended-cab pickup, the power window makes it possible for the driver to open the rear window of the truck without stopping the vehicle.
The problem: On a small pickup truck, a manual sliding panel in the rear window is no problem since it's within easy reach of the driver. On a larger truck or extended-cab model, the rear window can be difficult for the driver to reach. In our demonstration vehicle -- a 4-door extended cab truck (figure A) -- the driver must stop the vehicle and get out in order to open the rear window. A power rear-window is the solution -- a nice option that will eliminate this inconvenience.
DIY Difficulty Rating for Repair: This job is fairly simple since the replacement power-window comes as a kit, with nearly everything that's needed for the installation. We gave it a difficulty rating of 2 on a 5-point intermediate-level scale. This job might be finished in a single day. Allow yourself a day and a half to allow for any possible complications.
Important: Included below are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular vehicle, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of window-kit you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts. > Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection, and follow proper safety precautions, when working with power tools. Safety Alert: As a standard safety precaution, always disconnect the vehicle's negative battery cable before you begin work on any electrical or mechanical components.
In addition to standard auto-mechanic's tools, some of the specialty tools that will be needed for this project include motorized rotary tool and panel tool.
Preparatory Steps
- The replacement window, complete with electrical wiring and motor for the power-open panel, comes as a kit. The one shown in our demonstration cost about $400. These windows and kits are very vehicle-specific, so consult your parts dealer to make certain that you're getting the window that fits the model and year of your truck. When you unpack the window-kit, lay it carefully on a drop cloth to inspect the glass and the contents (figure B).
- Our window installs onto the rear of the cab by means of 12 mounting studs and an adhesive seal that's already in place on the glass (figure C).
- The electric motor is included (figure D), as is the cabling (figure E) that operates the open/close action of the sliding window-panel.
- Installation procedures may vary from one vehicle to another. Depending on your vehicle and the replacement kit you select, most of the work may be either done from inside the cab, outside from the forward portion of the bed, or a combination of both. In our case, most of the preliminary work was done from inside the cab. To begin our project, the rear seats had to be removed for full access to the existing rear window.
- Unbolt the seats from the attachment points on the floor of the cab (figure F). The bolts come out easily with a ratchet.
- Once all of the bolts are removed, carefully lift and remove the seats from the vehicle (figure G).
- With the seats removed, next remove the rear panel at the back of the cab. Carefully remove the plastic fasteners with a panel tool, using caution not to scratch the panel or damage the fasteners. Remove the securing bolts, and carefully lift out the panel (figure H).
- Unbolt and remove the seatbelts.
- Carefully detach and remove the plastic side panels. These should come loose much like the larger rear panel did.
- The next step for gaining access to the nuts that secure the window is to detach and lower the headliner. These damage easily and are expensive to replace, so use caution to avoid damaging the fabric or foam backing of the headliner. A specialized trim-removing tool (figure I) makes it easier to grasp and remove the plastic buttons that hold the headliner in place (figure J).
- Once the plastic fasteners are removed, lower the headliner just enough to allow access to the top edge of the rear window (figure K).
- With the panels removed, the studs and nuts that hold the glass in place at the rear of the cab are visible. There may also be another series of studs (figure L) that hold the outside window-trim in place. Be sure to properly identify the studs that will need to be loosened to remove the window.
- Metal clips hold the side panels in place (figure M). These need to be removed also before the glass can be taken out. Be sure to label the clips when you remove them so that they will be installed in the proper location during re-assembly.
In the segment that follows, the original rear window is removed from the truck.
RESOURCES :
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Trouble-Free Car Care
Author: Dan Ramsey
ISBN: 0028635833
Alpha Books
Auto Repair for Dummies
Author: Deanna Sclar
ISBN: 0764550896
| 
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
