Expert: Ben Menard - 5/3/2011

Question
QUESTION: I have a 98 windstar and the front passenger doesn't go up or down I bought a new motor and installed it but it still doesn't work the new motor and the old motor both run when the switch is activated but the window doesn't move any ideas why?

ANSWER: Hi Gary,

If the motor(s) run, but the window doesn't move, that typically would mean that the gear on the motor is not moving the toothed arm on the window regulator.

Try one or both of these two steps and get back to me with the results.

1.  Put your hands on both sides of the glass and pull down while someone else presses the switch to lower the window.

2.  If that doesn't work, then remove the window motor from the regulator and try to manually pull the glass down.


Ben  .... the power window guy.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The window without the motor mounted will move up and down manually, and the motor does run when mounted but the spur gear doesn't turn it tries to turn but just moves little when you change direction on the switch.  If I unbolt the motor the spur gear turns. The gear on the regulator seems OK.

Answer
Hello Gary,

It sounds to me like the motor is defective.

If you place a locking pliers on the spur gear and apply momentary power to the motor, it should be difficult to keep the gear from turning.  If you can easily prevent the gear from turning when the power is applied, the motor is defective.

Feel free to send another follow up if you have any other questions.

Ben ... the power window guy