How to Fix a Power Window on a Ford Thunderbird

The Ford Thunderbird was manufactured with electric power windows, regulated by a small motor embedded in the door. This motor can give out, or have other electrical malfunctions that cause the window to stop working. The average backyard mechanic can fix the power window in a Thunderbird in about 30 minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Socket set
• Screwdrivers

Instructions

1. Check the fuses at the driver's side kick panel for burned out filaments. Replace any blown fuses. If the other window works, the issue will either be with the motor, wiring to the door or the switch.

2. Disconnect the battery by turning the positive terminal bolt in a counterclockwise direction. Set the terminal aside where it can not touch metal.

3. Turn the screws on the inside of the interior door handle counterclockwise and remove them.

4. Turn the bolts in the arm rest counterclockwise and remove them.

5. Pull the power window switches from the door panel by prying the corner with a screwdriver. Disconnect the wiring harness by pulling the adapter plug apart.

6. Pull the door panel from the metal by starting at a corner and firmly disengaging the pop rivets, one at a time. These plastic rivets hold the panel to the door frame, and they can become brittle with age and break when the panel is pulled free. It is common to replace several pop rivets when removing the panel.

7. Disconnect the motor from the wiring harness by pulling the adapter plug apart. Check the wiring for burns or damage.

8. Remove the motor mount bolts by turning them in a counterclockwise direction. The gears in the back are meshed into the window regulator, and the motor can simply be pulled straight out from them. Check the window regulator for damage.

9. Replace the motor by positioning it into the window regulator gears, then tightening the mount bolts clockwise until they are snug.

10. Reconnect the wiring harness by pushing the adapter plug together.

11. Replace the door panel by pressing it to the metal frame, engaging the pop rivets. Once all rivets are secure, turn the arm rest bolts and door handle screws clockwise until they are tight.

12. Replace the power window switches by pressing the adapter plugs together and fitting it back into the door panel. Most models will pop back into place, gripping the door panel with small attached clips.

13. Reconnect the battery by turning the terminal bolt clockwise.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a voltmeter to test the switch operation, if necessary.

• Use extreme caution when working on a vehicle's electrical system.

References

• How Do I Check and Replace My Electric Power Window Motor?
• How to Repair the Power Window Regulator/Motor