Window Regulator Roller Replacement ???

[Rack Man]

I searched the archives expecting to find a bunch of threads on this...but basically came up empty!

I'm trying to replace the nylon rollers on my window regulators...I got some repop ones from LMC....so far while trying to install them I have broken one and have one that is installed but very loose...

I'm using the same rivet setting tool that I used for my vent windows....but, I cannot seem to get the rivet set down tight.....Any suggetions, tips or voodoo magic would be appreciated

Thanks in advance!

[coloradosean2009]

I am thinking that you may need a larger rivet set. The one that I bought for vent windows seems like it would be too small for the larger rivets that would be on the window regulators.

Another possibility is that your rivet is slightly too long. If that is the case, you can place a thin washer on the rivet before you set it. That would also add strength to the set.

If you have a picture of the rivet that you messed up, it may be easier to tell what is going on.

[unclewatts]

Not meaning to be a wisea$$ but I just ended up buying the whole regulator from Classic Parts. You get an all new regulator with new rollers already installed for $29.95. Life's too short. BTW, it sure was a beotch getting it in and out of the door though, but I guess you knew that. I still got the scars on my arm.

[Rack Man]

Originally Posted by unclewatts

Not meaning to be a wisea$$ but I just ended up buying the whole regulator from Classic Parts. You get an all new regulator with new rollers already installed for $29.95. Life's too short. BTW, it sure was a beotch getting it in and out of the door though, but I guess you knew that. I still got the scars on my arm.

Not to be a wiseass myself...But i'd rather not use Repop crap if I don't have to....I have heard that the repop window regulators are no different (cheap junk).....Its all a learning curve....and I enjoy it!.....Otherwise I would have bought a truck already completed!

[Sinister]

Originally Posted by unclewatts

Not meaning to be a wisea$$ but I just ended up buying the whole regulator from Classic Parts. You get an all new regulator with new rollers already installed for $29.95. Life's too short. BTW, it sure was a beotch getting it in and out of the door though, but I guess you knew that. I still got the scars on my arm.

I ordered regulators from Classic Parts as well. A lot better then the trashed originals they replaced

[mbgmike]

We sell replacement automotive window rollers for most all vehicles. Wholesale and retail

[Rack Man]

Well...I set the rivet OK..the tool seems fine as the rivet is about the same size as the pivot rivet on the vent windows.

Its kinda hard to explain...but its just not keeping the nylon roller tight against the arm......Because when you go to set the rivet there seems to be no way to back up the rivet without breaking the roller....because the rivet is recessed in the roller slightly...and if you set it out flush on the backside, it will seat fine but then the roller will have lots of slop.....Confused ?....I am

[Chada]

I replaced one regulator a couple weeks ago with a repop from LMC. Not as nice as the original thats for sure but mine was toast and had to be replaced. Seems to work ok though and it is a pain to put in.

[coloradosean2009]

I understand now. You need a solid backing to place the head of rivet against. I used a 3/8 Allen drive socket to back up the rivets on my wing window. You will need to find something that will be solid enough yet small enough to fit inside the recess. Then the fun part is holding it together while whacking the rivet.

[Rack Man]

Originally Posted by coloradosean2009

I understand now. You need a solid backing to place the head of rivet against. I used a 3/8 Allen drive socket to back up the rivets on my wing window. You will need to find something that will be solid enough yet small enough to fit inside the recess. Then the fun part is holding it together while whacking the rivet.

Yep...thats the issue!...However, I did try what you are saying with a small socket and thats how I broke the one roller...because it is now using the inside shoulder portion of the nylon roller to seat against when you are setting the rivet...one hit and snap!.....Just doesn't seem like there is way to set it without having the slop!

I did read about some guys using bolt on style ones from like shower doors......I just haven't been able to locate any in 11/16" diameter like I need!

[71tahoe]

Originally Posted by Rack Man

Yep...thats the issue!...However, I did try what you are saying with a small socket and thats how I broke the one roller...because it is now using the inside shoulder portion of the nylon roller to seat against when you are setting the rivet...one hit and snap!.....Just doesn't seem like there is way to set it without having the slop!

I did read about some guys using bolt on style ones from like shower doors......I just haven't been able to locate any in 11/16" diameter like I need!

Either your rivet shoulder is too short or the roller cylinder is too long. Have you tried using a big c-clamp as a press? It won't be easy keeping the tool in place but could be done.

[mclairmo]

I would press the rivet, not hammer it.

[Rack Man]

I think 71tahoe is right....the roller inside cylinder is too deep or the rivet shoulder isn't long enough....therefore there really is no way to seat it tighter...As you can see in the 2nd pic, its recessed in there about 1/8" and it should be more like a 1/32"......

[neonlarry]

They should be recessed about 5/64 ths. I used a press when I did mine and they work perfect. A lot better than repop regulators, I tried those first from EC and wound up taking them back and fixing the OE ones with new rollers. If you back up the head and press them you should be able to get a good fit, not too tight but not too loose.