Remove and replace the front power window regulator assembly, including disconnecting the window motor, removing the glass retention, and installing a new regulator mechanism.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Front power window regulator assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or AMC/Jeep aftermarket supplier
• Door panel retaining clips × 1 — Replace broken clips as needed
• Window channel felt (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Pop rivets 1/8 inch (if original uses rivets) × 6 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent accidental window motor activation
3. Roll window to approximately half-way position for access to regulator bolts
4. Lay protective covering over door sill and seat to protect from scratches
5. Gather all tools and replacement parts before beginning disassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove door panel
   Remove window crank handle by prying out retaining clip with needle nose pliers. Remove all visible Phillips screws securing door panel (typically 2-3 screws around perimeter and armrest). Use door panel tool to carefully pry panel away from door frame, releasing retaining clips. Disconnect any courtesy light or door handle rod connections. Lift panel up and away from door.
2. 2

   Remove watershield
   Carefully peel back the plastic watershield covering the inner door frame. This is typically glued or taped in place. Work slowly to avoid tearing, as it may be reusable. If adhesive is old and brittle, plan to replace with new weatherproofing material.
3. 3

   Disconnect window motor
   Locate the power window motor electrical connector inside the door cavity. Disconnect the connector by pulling it apart. Note wire colors and orientation for reinstallation. If connector is corroded, clean terminals before proceeding.
4. 4

   Secure window glass
   Using masking tape or a specialized window support, secure the glass in the full-up position. Tape the glass to the door frame on both front and rear edges to prevent it from falling when disconnected from the regulator. Ensure the tape is strong enough to support the full weight of the glass.
5. 5

   Disconnect glass from regulator
   Locate the bolts or clips connecting the window glass channel to the regulator lift mechanism (typically two 7/16 inch bolts accessible through access holes in the inner door frame). Remove these fasteners and carefully separate the glass from the regulator. The glass should now be supported only by the tape.
6. 6

   Remove window stops and guides
   Remove any glass run channel clips or window stops that may interfere with regulator removal. These are typically located at the top and bottom of the door frame. Note their positions for proper reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove regulator mounting fasteners
   Locate all regulator mounting points (typically 4-6 bolts or rivets). If equipped with bolts, use 7/16 inch socket to remove. If equipped with factory rivets, carefully drill out rivets using 1/8 inch bit, being careful not to enlarge holes in door frame. Keep track of all mounting locations.
8. 8

   Remove window motor from regulator
   If the window motor is being reused, remove the bolts securing it to the regulator assembly (typically three 1/4 inch bolts). Separate the motor from the regulator. Inspect motor for wear or damage. If motor shows signs of binding or electrical issues, replace along with regulator.
9. 9

   Extract regulator assembly
   Carefully maneuver the regulator assembly out through the large access opening in the inner door frame. This may require rotating and tilting the assembly to clear the window glass and door frame structure. Work slowly to avoid damaging the door or catching regulator cables on sharp edges.
10. 10

    Install new regulator
    Position the new regulator assembly inside the door cavity. If reusing the original motor, install it onto the new regulator before insertion. Maneuver the assembly into position, aligning all mounting holes with the door frame. Ensure regulator tracks and arms move freely and are not bound or twisted.
11. 11

    Secure regulator to door frame
    Install all mounting bolts or pop rivets to secure the regulator to the door frame. If using rivets, ensure they are properly set and flush. If using bolts, tighten securely but do not overtighten thin door sheet metal. Verify regulator is firmly mounted and does not shift when moved by hand.
12. 12

    Connect window motor and test mechanism
    Reconnect the window motor electrical connector. Temporarily reconnect the negative battery cable and test motor operation by activating the window switch. Verify the regulator moves smoothly through its full range without binding. Disconnect battery again before proceeding.
13. 13

    Reconnect glass to regulator
    Remove tape supporting the window glass. Lower the glass slightly and align the glass channel with the regulator lift points. Install the mounting bolts and tighten securely. Verify glass is level and properly seated in the regulator mechanism.
14. 14

    Test window operation and adjust
    Reconnect battery and cycle the window through full up and down travel multiple times. Check for smooth operation, unusual noises, or binding. Verify glass seals properly at the top and does not tilt. Adjust glass run channels and stops as needed for proper alignment and sealing.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall window stops and run channel components in their original positions
2. Reattach watershield to inner door frame, using new adhesive tape if original is damaged
3. Reinstall door panel by engaging top edge first, then pressing clips into place around perimeter
4. Install all door panel screws and window crank handle with retaining clip
5. Verify all door panel components are secure and properly aligned

Verification

• Cycle window up and down at least 10 times to verify smooth operation throughout full travel
• Check that window seats properly against weatherstripping with no gaps when fully closed
• Verify window glass remains level and does not tilt during operation
• Listen for any unusual grinding, clicking, or binding noises during operation
• Test window switch in both up and down directions from driver and passenger controls if equipped
• Verify door panel is secure with no rattles or loose components

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