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  • Electric Rear-Window -- Switch Installation and Re-Assembly
  • From "Weekend Mechanic"
    episode WKM-209
    advertisement

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    Figure A

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    Figure B

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    Figure C

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    Figure D

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    Figure E

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    Figure F

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    Figure G

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    Figure H

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    Figure I

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    Figure J

    The final steps in the installation of the rear power-window are mounting the switch on the dash and re-installation of the body panels and seats that were removed earlier.

    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 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.


    Control-Switch Installation and Re-Assembly


    • A new hole will need to be cut in the dash for mounting the new switch that controls the new powered rear-window. With the panel removed, select the best placement on the panel for positioning of the new switch (figure A).



    • The new hole must be cut carefully and precisely. If the hole is cut too large or placed in an unsuitable location, the panel will have to be discarded and replaced with a new one.



    • Before cutting the new hole, the nearby existing switch is carefully removed from the panel using a pry-tool (figure B).



    • Since the adjacent switch is identical in size to the new one, it can be used to create a template for the new hole. A piece of paper is placed behind the existing hole, and the hole is traced onto the backing paper (figure C).



    • The traced pattern is then cut out and used to mark the location and size of the new hole (figure D).



    • A rotary tool can then be used to cut out the new hole (figure E). The rotary tool can be used to cut the hole precisely and accurately. The size of the hole must be exact since there is a narrow trim-ring at the front of the switch-body, leaving little room for error.



    • Once the hole has been cut, the old switch can be re-installed, and the new switch installed in the new hole (figure F).



    • Connect the switches to the wiring according to the manufacturer's instructions (figure G).



    • Reverse the earlier steps to re-install the panels and other elements of the dash assembly (figure H).



    • Once the dash is put back together, re-install the rear panel, side panels and seat belts (figure I). As you reinstall the plastic panels, tighten down the fasteners securely to avoid annoying rattles later on. Use caution, however, not to overtighten as this could cause the plastic panels to crack.



    • Finally, reinstall the seats (figure J) and bolt them down securely.






    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

  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE:


  • Gutter Repair
  • Landscaping Basics
  • Flooring
  • UV Air Sanitizer
  • Replacement Windows
  • Planter, Self-Watering
  • Hand-Painted Glasses
  • Choose Washer/Dryer
  • Backsplash Installation
  • Hand-Painted Bowls
  • Prepare for Vacation
  • Maintain Garage Door
  • Disinfect Bathroom
  • Romance Kit
  • Curb Appeal
  • Transport Equipment
  • Installing Undermount
  • Holiday Decorating
  • Family Scrapbook
  • Ice Candle
  • Selecting Doors
  • Spark Plug, Changing
  • Maintain Cabinets
  • Front Door Facelift
  • Change Windowpane