Window Regulator Main Spring

markwill

markwill

Junior Member
Does any one know the trick to installing a new main spring in a Model A window regulator? I swapped a main spring from a broken regulator to a good regulator that was missing the spring. However, I cannot get the preload correct...it's a strong spring and the can't wind it around far enough. There must be a tool or trick to accomplish this.

Thanks.
 
Can you grip the end of the spring with a Vice Grip, then use a screwdriver through the Vice Grip for leverage to wind and hook the spring?
 
Tom Wesenberg said:
Can you grip the end of the spring with a Vice Grip, then use a screwdriver through the Vice Grip for leverage to wind and hook the spring?
Click to expand...

I think the Vice-Grip is the best way. I've had good results with the needle nose V-G's and have had no need for a screwdriver.
 
I just installed a spring on my drivers side door yesterday. I finally had to remove the regulator and disconnect it from the window channel. Then raise the arm to it's highest point to get the spring on (spring will have least tension at this point).
 
Mike V you are backwards when you roll the window down the spring goes into tension to aid you in lifting the weight of the glass. it is best to remove the regulator and put in the up position and the springs go on pretty easy.
 
This is what I do: I use a length of steel wire (the type used for electric fencing) and make a short loop to pull on the outer loop in the regulator spring. I connect the other end of the wire to a wrench to create a T- handle. Then with the regulator clamped into a vise - I can pull the spring into position - and sometimes I need to push the spring down to get into its final location.
 
I hope this isn't a stupid question....but does the spring help hold the window up? Both my windows slowly work their way down as you drive along...
 
runnin hot said:
I hope this isn't a stupid question....but does the spring help hold the window up? Both my windows slowly work their way down as you drive along...
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Not stupid... Yes it does keep the window in the up position. My drivers door window would creep down just sitting still. There wasn't a spring installed when I removed the door panel. I had to put a small bungee cord around the handle to hold the window up. Works great now.
 
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Mike V. Florida said:
Also make sure the regulator is in the "open" position as the spring has the least tension on it.
Click to expand...

I think the spring has less tension on it when the regulator is in the full "up" position. The spring helps assist in the raising of the window.
The window is easy to crank down as you have gravity helping you.

The spring unwinds as the window is cranked up and then is re-tensioned as the window is cranked down.

I have replaced several without a problem with the regulator in the full up position.

My opinion.

Chris W.
 
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