The LH window in my '79 is difficult to wind. It feels like I'll break something in there. I took off the trim to look and, surprise, it winds much easier with the panel off. However, the post for the crank seems very loose; is this wear? I don't want to tear the door all apart, nor buy a regulator, unless I need to. Does it just need to be lubed? Is that post loose normally? Is it a big deal if I don't get the rain shield back as it was (or at all)? By the way, the car only has 50K, but maybe those regulators are prone to failure.

Thanks, Rob

 

I had the same issue on my '83. What I found that helped the most, was to remove the door panel, and spray a light lube, such as WD-40, thru the hole around the crank handle, while rolling the window up and down. A few times of doing this, and the windows rolled up/down almost effortlessly. I then used a heavier lube to re-oil the mechanism, as the lighter stuff will not last very long, but sure does clean out the years of grime.

 

Thanks. I'll try that first. When you say you "used a heavier lube" do you mean on the crank mechanism, or on the horizontal channels where the 'X' frame (don't know if that's the right name for it) rides?

Rob

 

Actually, I started by trying to lube the X framework, but that wasn't doing much good. I don't think it hurts, though.
For the heavier lube, I used a chainsaw bar and chain lube. Heavy enough to stay put, yet thin enough to not cause binding issues during cooler weather. Added bonus, the spray can had one of those little plastic tubes, which makes it much easier to get it where you want it. A can of brake cleaner works good for cleaning the crud out, just be sure to get the kind that will not harm paint.