When driving on the highway today with the windows down slightly, I noticed it was rattling around more than usual. When i parked the drivers side was fine but the passenger side would catch only intermittently and I had to manually help it up.
While searching the site i see a lot of info about the clips olding the glass on the track and that this is a common problem but the '83-'86 window bottoms look different in pictures. Are the clips probably the problem on my T-Bird or am I going to see a different set-up when I get the door panel off?
Thanks.
The 83-86 have holes through the track. i have taken a bolt and stuck it through the track with a lock nut and a bit of rubber hose over the bolt so it doesn't rattle.
lube everything up well with white lithium grease, chances are that its binding somewhere. also, the motors havr plastic gears that like to strip teeth, so check that as well.
generally a bit of lube does wonders as long as the tracks are still attached.
So it sounds like its not likely the window separating from the track? Do you happen to know or remember what size bolt will fit through the holes just in case it is that?
I remember those plastic gears on my Mark VII's window motor, so annoying.
I guess i'll take it apart and see whats going on.
Thanks.
I don't, its been almost 10 years since i owned an 86 (not countinmy current.car)
When i did the windows in my second 86 it was probably 2003-04. It will be pretty self explanitory though i think.
Thanks anyway. it was worth a shot asking. Lol
Im going to see what I find.
If you hear the motor running steady and a "thump-thump-thump" sound with the window kicking up a tiny bit each time, that's the bushings in the motor. If that's the case, just pull the motor, and inside the motor head there are 3 bushings that disintegrate over time. They used to sell them in the "help" section in parts stores. I am sure you can make some out something, worst case.
If the window was off the track it would bind up. If it pulled off the mounts, you'd be able to lift the glass out of the door. Sounds more like the bushings to me.
Bingo! I took the panel off and the glass is definitely secured to the holder with the 2 bolts. The motor runs and makes the thumping sound. If i push up/down on the assembly as I hold down the switch the window moves fine. If pressing it on it's own, it either won't move or may move a centimeter.
Now the question is, does anyone have any tips for getting the motor out and in again? I believe its riveted in there?
Thanks.
Rivets can be drilled out through the center to remove them. Most likely they are 1/8" but I can't say for sure, having never had a fox with power windows... Someone else should chime in in a bit with more info...
There should be 3 bolts that hold the motor to the regulator. Getting to the bolts can be a little tough. I will preface this by saying "this is how I do it, but it may not be right". There are 3 little dimples in the metal right above the 3 bolts to the motor. I drill those dimples out with a bit big enough for the socket. Then you can put the socket right on the bolt.
I ordered the Dorman replacement gears today so hopefully I'll get it and give it a try soon. Of course its starting to get warm...Lol
I got the motor gears yesterday and put them in and the window is back in action. The old gears were in pieces. Thanks for the help guys.