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Garage => Mechanicals => Topic started by: sethkestenbaum on 11 July 2020, 05:13 PM

Title: rear window regulator removal
Post by: sethkestenbaum on 11 July 2020, 05:13 PM
On my 1980 300SD (W116), I attempting to remove the rear driver side window regulator and motor to see why the window isn't working correctly. I think the regulator has bent a bit out of shape. I've removed the three bolts that attach it to the door and now have it kind of loose but have no idea how to detach it from the track.  Might anyone have a good step by step?  I see a few videos online for front windows --- which seem different.  I'm probably missing an easy step -- but am missing it none the less.

Of course, I am doing this outside and it is starting to rain.

Seth
Title: Re: rear window regulator removal
Post by: rumb on 11 July 2020, 05:23 PM
You want the window about 1/2 up so you can take off the bolts holding it to the bottom of the window.  Then push window up.  The @1/2 also is a good position to be able to snake the entire regulator assy out of the hole. The wires to the motor may be held down with a ziptie in the deep corner of the window.
Title: Re: rear window regulator removal
Post by: sethkestenbaum on 11 July 2020, 07:43 PM
The regulator is WARPED and sticking on itself.  I am assuming that this is why it keeps skipping/jamming/not closing all the way.  I've tried to bend it back, but have decided it just isn't going to work.  Tomorrow AM I guess I will be heading to visit my parts car.
Title: Re: rear window regulator removal
Post by: Taha on 12 July 2020, 02:27 AM
Hi,

There is metal clip behind the regulator arm. Just try to remove it. It's easier to remove the clip before removing the bolts.

Title: Re: rear window regulator removal
Post by: sethkestenbaum on 12 July 2020, 09:53 PM
Thanks Everyone, I've swapped out the regulator with the one from my parts car.  The window now works, but make some noises while doing so.  The replacement part was also warped.  Oh well, at least I can now open/close the window.
Title: Re: rear window regulator removal
Post by: Diesel 617 on 17 July 2020, 10:41 AM
These regulators can be straightened  and take out most of the warping. You have to be very firm but gentle and use a propane torch to soften the pot metal. Use large vise grips or a vice to straighten.
Title: Re: rear window regulator removal
Post by: daantjie on 17 July 2020, 11:31 AM
The trick is to keep these well lubed.  If you hear noise coming from them then the end is nigh :'(
Title: Re: rear window regulator removal
Post by: sethkestenbaum on 19 July 2020, 06:25 PM
How hard is it to remove/put back the spring?  I was going to take the one I removed and try to remove everything and put it in a press to "flatten" things out a little.