Sunday 5 June 2011

98 Dodge Intrepid, changing the drivers side electric window motor. And how to remove the door panels? THANKS?

The window has finally stopped going down so I am ***/u/ming that I need a replacement motor. Uncertain how to change it, where on the door is it (upper or lower, etc) and how do I remove the door panels to get at it?





By chance, does the drivers side rear seat window motor match with the front seat motor so i could swap them out? No longer married, and the kids have their own cars so why do I need a rear window to go down eh?





Thanks evereyone.


Mike|||Unfortunately, those two motors are usually not identical. Not to say it wouldnt work its more of a question of how much modification it would take to swap them. You may need to make a bracket to put the mounting holes where they need to be if you are set on doing this. Your best bet would be to look for a used one with a warranty or even better a new one. factors to consider are does your left rear window go all the way down as your left front probably does? Are they the same size? If not then your motor might not allow your window to go all the way down or worse, roll all the way up.You can consider all of these questions before you even attempt to remove the door panel. The window regulator is usually located in the center of the door to provide the best balance for the glass and lifting capability.The door should be secured by either screws or more likely plastic fasteners which are removed by a panel removing tool or a screwdriver to pry the panel from the door if its not a show vehicle and you dont mind possibly damaging your vehicle. These are usually a one time use fastener and will not hold as well the second time or anytime the door panel is removed after that. Make sure you check the door for screws behind plastic trim pieces. Its not a hard job and can be even easier with a haynes or chilton manual. Dont forget that after the bottom has been detached the lip is usually lifted over the window and wires connecting to the window switches and door locks will limit how far the panel can go until everything is disconnected. I hope this helps even though it is a general answer. Good Luck and remember that there are few satisfactions greater then for a job you%26#039;ve done yourself.|||All of the replacement motors are the same except for the drive gears that make the window go up and down.


To remove the door panel I use a stiff (STIFF) putty knife to get the %26#039;rivets%26#039; to pop out. You need to be as close to the rivet as possible. Not doing so might break the rivet (usually nylon or plastic) or pull it loose from the panel itself.


I%26#039;d look at the fuses or the power button first. These parts fail more than the motor does.


If the motor does need to be replaced there are metal pop rivets that hold it to the door. You%26#039;ll need to drill these out and replace them with new pop rivets. A pop rivet kit isn%26#039;t too expensive at auto parts stores.


They might even have the exact tool to remove the door panel.