Rebuilding Your '65 Thunderbird Window Switches: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to repairing and maintaining classic cars, there are often unique challenges that arise due to the age and design of the vehicle. For owners of a 1965 Ford Thunderbird, one such challenge is finding reliable replacement parts for their power window system. In this article, we'll explore the process of rebuilding the door trim panel and replacing the regulator, as well as discuss the feasibility of using common Ford wide parts versus specialty parts.

Before beginning any repairs, it's essential to understand the terminology used in the shop manual. The 'door trim panel' refers to the interior panel that surrounds the door and contains the armrest and window controls. The 'door water shield' is a protective cover that prevents water from entering the door cavity when driving through wet conditions.

To gain access to the vent and window adjustments, it's necessary to remove the door inside handles, the door trim panel, and carefully remove the door water shield, as described in the shop manual. However, this process can be complicated by the fact that the regulator is buried behind sheet metal with no decent-sized opening near it for easy access.

In Chapter 17 of the shop manual, two paragraphs discuss adjusting the alignment of the window, but they do not provide guidance on replacing the regulator. Based on this information, it's likely that replacement of the regulator will be necessary to resolve the issue.

When testing the power windows, it was discovered that pushing the window out by about 1/2 inch allows the gears to catch and crank the rest of the way open. The crank spins freely, indicating that there is no mechanical binding or obstruction. This suggests that the problem lies with either the motor or the wiring.

Upon further inspection, it's clear that the power switch on the center console is not functioning properly, as it flaps in the breeze when not in use. Applying 12 volts to the driver's side window caused it to move up and down with some minor binding, indicating that there may be an issue with the wiring.

To troubleshoot this problem, it's necessary to follow the trouble-shooting guide in the shop manual, which suggests that the issue could be due to either a lack of power reaching the motor or a faulty motor itself. Given the age and condition of the vehicle, it's possible that both options are viable explanations for the problem.

In conclusion, rebuilding the door trim panel and replacing the regulator can be a complex process, but with patience and attention to detail, it can be accomplished successfully. Additionally, understanding the terminology used in the shop manual and following the trouble-shooting guide can help identify the root cause of the issue.

As owners of classic cars, we often face unique challenges that require creative problem-solving and resourcefulness. By understanding the intricacies of our vehicles and taking the time to rebuild and repair them, we can ensure many more years of enjoyment on the road.

65 thunderbird window switches