Power Window

[My3buicks]

I am replacing the power window motor on my driver side front. It goes up most of the way and then starts grinding like it's missing gears. I ahve a used unit to put in. Any tips, tech advise, or special advise to do this job?

[centurion 455 ragtop]

Only advise would be to take your time. And fist inspect the entire system in the door for anything else that may be causing the problem.

[dewbers]

I'm having similar problems Keith. I'll be watching your posts for updates. I need to spend some time on all my windows, as some of the switches aren't working correctly and my passenger side does not go up all the way. It stops about 1/4 inch from the top. And one of my rear windows is super slow and noisy... Good luck and keep us posted.

[centurion 455 ragtop]

Windows are a nightmare especially with converts. Not only are they a pain to adjust, its a dirty job working in tight spaces. Mine too need some adjustments, but after towing two or three times I am back to square one as the car body flexes when towing. With the slow moving of the windows I was told years of grime gets built up inside the tracks and gums up the movement. They need to be completely taken apart, cleaned, worn parts replaced and re-assembled. I haven't tackled that job, when time comes I would suggest doing one side at a time. THis way if you forget how a piece goes you can check out the other side.

[Richard Dunn]

Just as a comment to this thread. The back windows on Big Green go up and down fine. The front windows are extremely slow. Additionally the master power window switches on the driver's door will not work to lower any window other than the driver's door. It will however work to lift that window and both rear windows (depending on it's mood) and has only worked the front right door once.

[The German]

Richard, take away the panel and clean the contacts of the switch by using an electric contact spray. Spray this special oil into the gaps of the switch from the cars interiour side too and move the 4 switches up and down so they will clean up and get good contact again.
Also have a look to the windows mechanic while you drive the window up and down, this way you will find out what makes it going slow. May be it only needs some oil or grease ... ! Or the elements which hold the glass are worn out so that these holders are acting like a brake; in that case you have to change their pads. I did it with some little and thin pieces of a carpet.

Good luck !

[Richard Dunn]

Thank you Rolf, I'm going to save this information.
I won't get to work on Big Green for few week.. I've got some weekend travel plans in place for the next few weeksends.
I'm getting braver in my old age. I might actually attempt this.

[73 Centurion]

The trick to removing the power window mechanism is to raise the window half way before you begin. Have some soft jawed clamps handy to keep the window from dropping sown inside the door. Disconnect the battery but have a 12 volt source available.

Many of the attachment bolts are adjustable. Mark all of them so you can get back to your current alignment.

The arm that moves the window has a geared section that takes all of the stress. The forces are tremendous when the window hits the stops and frequently the last tooth or two gets broken. The grinding you hear could be the motor hitting that missing tooth.

Clean your replacement mechanism before you begin. Get rid of all of the grime. You can also open the gears attached to the motor. The grease in there is probably old and dried out. Clean it and replace with new. I like to use marine grease as it's water proof. Our doors are rarely water tight at the base of the window.

I cleaned and greased mine and they work quick and smooth.

Adjusting the windows is an exercise in patience. Rick is right, with convertibles the alignment of doors and windows is temporary at best as the car flexes.

Here's a thread on here that has a picture of most of the stops and adjustments.

http://www.buickcenturion.com/forums/showthread.php?894-73-Centurion-reborn&highlight=paintworks

Good luck,
John