C2 Vent Window Regulator

[Roger P.]

Is there any way to remove and replace the vent window regulator in a '65 convertible without removing the vent window assembly? I restored the entire assembly (rechromed the frames, new rubber, and new felt) about seven years ago, but didn't mess with the regulators at the time because they were working fine. Unfortunately, the driver side isn't closing tightly any more so I assume the gear is stripped inside the regulator. I remember getting the vent window assembly in the door and adjusted properly with the door glass was a real PITA and I am hoping that I can simply swap out the regulator without messing with the assembly. Any luck for an easy fix or is it Murphy's Law once again?

My fingers are crossed, Roger ;-)

[John F.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

I believe there are just two screws that hold the regulator and one that goes thru the bottom rod of the window itself. No need to remove the window frame, etc.

[Roger P.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

Thank you for your reply, John. I searched the archives and the only information that I found was one person who said that you can remove the regulator while leaving the frame assembly in only on a coupe, but that the frame has to be removed on a convertible. Of course, I can accept what he said, but it was the only post that I found that made that claim. I want to know for sure what I'm getting into before I start what I hope will be a "quick & easy task" and not a "time-consuming & PITA project".

[Dan B.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

The original gears are pot metal and can easily wear when the old grease hardens. The other issue is the plate that holds it to the housing gets loose or falls off and operation becomes sloppy and won't close tightly. It's just peened over (resembles a rivet. Take it apart clean inspect and see if the gear is ok (clamp it together and test it on the bench). Grind the surface smooth, Drill and Tap (2) 1/4-20 holes and re assemble using bolts and lock washers. This is also the procedure if you buy a kit with a new hardened aluminum gear.

[Roger P.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

Thank you for your reply, Dan. I was considering rebuilding the existing regulator or just buying a new one from one of the vendors. Do you agree with John that the vent window regulator can be removed from my '65 convertible without having to remove the entire vent window assembly? I want to confirm that before I get involved in a more time-consuming job at this time with the holidays starting next week.

[Jimmy G.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

Entire assembly needs to be removed on a conv. Coupe is a lot easier

[Roger P.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

Thank you for the information, Jimmy. I was studying a few photos of the door with the door panel removed and photos of the regulator with the hope that there was just enough door cut-out area next to the regulator to wiggle the old regulator out and the new regulator in. However, it looks very tight and not very likely. You confirmed what I was thinking... bummer.

[Richard G.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

Below is a picture taken as a NOS regulator came apart. Never been used. The grease, if you can call it that, was like dried honey.

IMG_3142.jpg

The lesson I got from this is even the NOS ones require disassembling for cleaning and greasing.

IMG_3178.jpg

IMG_3189.jpg

Here is my gearbox after dissembling and repair.
My original one had blown the cover off and it was laying in the bottom of the door.

I would be interested in how well built the replacement are.
They might be the best bet if you have to pull apart any NOS or used parts anyway.
Rick

[Dan H.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

Replacement ones turn further each way which differs from originals. I bought NOS coupe regulators, they loosened up up after a few turns, so I drilled out the rivets and tapped the holes for bolts like Richard, bingo, works perfect now.

[Dan B.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

I'm not sure what type of gear the reproductions have, but if yours is stripped (bad), you are better off IMHO of repairing your original with one of the aircraft grade aluminum ones and use a good synthetic grease. You will never have to touch it again

[Edward J.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

Replacement ones turn further each way which differs from originals. I bought NOS coupe regulators, they loosened up up after a few turns, so I drilled out the rivets and tapped the holes for bolts like Richard, bingo, works perfect now.

Dan did you take the play out of the gears? Saw a older post where the slot the holes on plate to move gears closer together.

[Dan H.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

Ed, they were fine after snugging down the bolts, the original GM gears have a stopping point when you open the vent, repro gears keep on turning farther, PV might be a problem if Judge is observant.

[Edward J.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

I am about to tackle my vent windows they have play, I want yo tighten them up.i been looking for solutions the sloting seems to be the to way to go.

[William F.]

Re: C2 Vent Window Regulator

I bought a repo regulator from a vendor for my '67 coupe and installed it. It works but the part that the crank attaches to sticks out further than the original; so, there's a small gap between the winder/handle part and the door panel. Anybody else have this experience?