HAs anyone coverted from crank windows to power? 1978 Silver Annaversary

[Frank G.]

I just purchase a 1978 Silver anniversary L82 4spd. It has 42,000 miles and is in pretty good shape. The only thing that struck me odd is no power windows and no power door locks. Out of 40,000 cars built only about 3,000 were manufactured with crank windows. My question is has anyone added these options? I'm sure the wiring is not there.

Any input or advice would be appricated.

Thanks,

Frank Grabos

[Tom R.]

Re: HAs anyone coverted from crank windows to power? 1978 Silver Annaversary

Frank

You would be buying a lot of parts from the driver's console that hosts the power window switches, to the switches, relays, wire, actuators, linkage (power locks), adding extra holes in door panels, etc. Even door locks (external) have a wire connection that is operated by the key and connects to the lock system. Best bet would be to get an AIM (assembly instuction manual) for 78, identify the parts and determine if you wish to proceed.

[Patrick H.]

Re: HAs anyone coverted from crank windows to power? 1978 Silver Annaversary

Probably cheaper to buy one that has the options you want installed.
I suspect you'd have to use the internals from a car with power windows for the easiest swap - and that's not easy. Might as well take their door panels too.

If this is just going to be an "occasional use" car for you then it's probably far easier to roll down the windows a few times a year.

Patrick

[Roger C.]

Re: HAs anyone coverted from crank windows to power? 1978 Silver Annaversary

There are companies one being eciklers that has a kit for converting manual windows to power.

I plan to purchase a kit for the conversion from them for my 73 coupe.

Hope someone that has purchased a kit will reply as to challenges presented.

[John L.]

Re: HAs anyone coverted from crank windows to power? 1978 Silver Annaversary

I've looked at the Ecklers Kit also for my 71, it looks fairly complete with wiring and switches, window regulators and motors, since my car needs regulators anyway I am thinking hard about up grading it to power.. It also will get new door panels and console pieces, so why not?
As for the door locks that's a completely different story, I would let that one go as I don't think there's a kit for that yet. JMO
Electric windows and door locks were part of the convenience group package for 78 & 79 along with lighted passenger visor mirror and door light delay, do you have these??

[Michael D.]

Re: HAs anyone coverted from crank windows to power? 1978 Silver Annaversary

The AIM shows the factory installation of the optional power windows and lists the original GM part numbers for what you will need if you want to make the swap. Replacement door panels are likely to be pricey.

[Frank G.]

Re: HAs anyone coverted from crank windows to power? 1978 Silver Annaversary

Thanks for all the great input. I'll look at Ecklers and see if I can get instructions as to what it will take. My car does not have the convenience group package. Wish it did. No delay, lighted mirror, PL, and PW. I was thinking of used parts but if there is a kit life just got easier.
Thanks,

Frank

[Walter G.]

Re: HAs anyone coverted from crank windows to power? 1978 Silver Annaversary

If you do the conversion but retain your stock door panels with window cranks you can have your '78 be like the '68 that was shown in early brochures with power window switches on the console and window cranks on the door panels...