Expert: Carl Brandt - 6/4/2010

Question
I need to install a window motor on my 2001 tahoe drivers side do i need to buy the regulator as well as the motor and how hard is it to get the glass back into the plastic holders??? thanks for any help

Answer
Here are some basic instructions for replacement of the motor and window.
If it is just the motor that is bad, you shouldn't need to replace the regulator, but I'm a believer that if you have to tear something down to repair it, it doesn't hurt to replace all other common components.  This can be a real help so that you don't have to work on it in another short time because the other parts were weak and ready to go out also.
The other thing I would do would be to  purchase a repair manual.  They cost around $20 at most auto parts stores.

WINDOW MOTOR REMOVAL PROCEDURE

  1. Raise the window. If the window motor is inoperable, remove the window to gain access to the window motor retaining screws.
  2. Remove the door trim panel.
  3. Remove the water deflector.
  4. Remove the door speaker.
  5. Support the window.
  6. Disconnect the wiring harness from the window regulator motor.
  7. Remove the 3 bolts (1) from the window motor located on the front side of the motor. IMPORTANT: Do not allow the cable gear to come out of the housing. A failure will result with the cable coming off the spool.
  8. Separate the motor from the cable housing by wiggling the window motor. Observe the orientation of the window motor.
  9. Remove the motor from the door regulator assembly.

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

  1. Install the motor to the cable housing by wiggling it into place. NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.
  2. Install the 3 bolts to the window motor. Tighten Tighten the bolts to 5 N.m (44 lb in).
  3. Install the window, if removed.
  4. Connect the wiring harness to the window regulator motor.
  5. Remove the window support.
  6. Connect the wire connector to the switch to inspect the operation of the window. After inspection disconnect the wiring harness and continue the installation.
  7. Install the speaker.
  8. Install the water deflector.
  9. Install the door trim panel.

Window Replacement

Removal Procedure
  1. Raise the window partially up.
  2. Remove the trim panel upper extension.
  3. Remove the manual door lock lever.
  4. Remove the manual window handle, if equipped.
  5. Remove the power accessory switch panel, if equipped.
  6. Remove the door trim panel.
  7. Remove the water deflector.
  8. Remove the window run channel front bolt attachment. Important: Do not remove the bolts.
  9. Loosen the 2 retaining bolts (2) from the window assembly.
 10. Remove the window (3) from the door by sliding the window out through the top.

Installation Procedure
  1. Install the window (3) to the door. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.
  2. Tighten the 2 retaining bolts (2) to the window assembly. Tighten the bolts to 12 N.m (9 lb ft).
  3. Install the window run channel bolt. Tighten the bolts to 9 N.m (80 lb in).
  4. Install the water deflector.
  5. Install the door trim panel.
  6. Install the power accessory switch panel.
  7. Install the manual window handle, if equipped.
  8. Install the manual door lock lever.
  9. Install the trim panel upper extension.
 10. Inspect the operation of the window.