power windows

[1955 mancave]

moving along on my truck and need to know if anyone has done a conversion from any donor veh. to fit in the 64 ?

thanks as allways
Henry.

[dantimdad]

following along. Been trying to figure out the same thing.

Steven

[spacedebris]

I've been discussing this with the mechanic that is helping me with the body work. He runs a hot rod and custom shop. He says that he has helped install many aftermarket power window systems into 60's trucks but says that they all had the same problem. They would constantly burn out. They simply could not handle he heavier weight of the glass in the earlier trucks. Now we have heard that some have converted the motor out of a later chevy's auto tailgate window since they are designed for heavy glass. I stopped looking into it when my project went on hold but I'm following this thread for future info.

[Clyde65]

nurelic!

http://www.nu-relics.com/

[tincan1966]

The older trucks windows are not any heavier than newer vehicles. In actuality probably lighter since they are a smaller window.

The problem with trying to convert a newer power window regulator into an older vehicle is the fact that new cars and trucks have curved glass, and ours are flat. Unless this is compensated for, you put an overload of stress on the power window motor, since the linkage is forced to stay in a straight line. That is what burns out motors. Also, not having the channels adjusted properly, or good quality felts and glass runs.

I have installed Specialty Power windows for years, as well as alot of others, like NuRelic. The best approach is a product designed for what you are working on.
Most failures are the result of a buying the cheapest parts there are, and not installing properly.

While money is important to everyone, if you really want a good working project, buy something that will work. it'll cost a bit more to begin with, but if you don't have to do it twice(or more) then it's worth it.

Not to get off on a rant, but there's dozens of forum about the cheapest parts out there, followed by forums about how bad the products(or vendors) are. What is to be expected ? You're buying the cheapest part you can find....... I am a firm believer in researching vendors/products. I DO read comments on products' websites. or I contact other shops/installers and get opinions from hands on people.

OK jumping off the soapbox and headed for the coffee pot! LOL

[newbe351]

Originally Posted by tincan1966

I have installed Specialty Power windows for years, as well as alot of others, like NuRelic. The best approach is a product designed for what you are working on.
Most failures are the result of a buying the cheapest parts there are, and not installing properly.

Tincan, part of the research you are talking about is the experience of others that have already traveled down this road. It sounds like you have more than a little experience. Any sage advice on vender/brand? Is NuRelic an option to go with, or are there other that you would advise us to look at?

Thanks for your input.....

[66C06]

I bought a nu-relic kit and have yet to instal it. Looks like it will be direct bolt in. I'm using the electric window crank switch so it will still look old school. Check out www.dreamershotrods.com they have anything and everything you need for a 60-66. I ordered the majority of my parts through them.

[tincan1966]

Originally Posted by newbe351

Tincan, part of the research you are talking about is the experience of others that have already traveled down this road. It sounds like you have more than a little experience. Any sage advice on vender/brand? Is NuRelic an option to go with, or are there other that you would advise us to look at?

Thanks for your input.....

Yes, I have been doing this since 1989, and feel I do have reasonable hands-on experience. I still have alot to learn, tho, just like anyone else.

I like the NuRelic products. For the DYI guy, they are nice.

A typical PW install here at our shop can range from $400 - $800 dependeing on the application.
Now, before anyone beats me up about gouging and saying they can buy a "kit" for $169 off the internet -- you are right, you can.
BUT it'll take you all weekend to install, making the right brackets,figuring out how to secure it, making a wiring harness with relays, etc... Now, if YOUR time is worth anythng, you should get about $20/hr for the work, that X an estimated 16 hours(a Saturday and Sunday) and you're in the $450-500 ball park. Now add in the right, quality window runs and channels, felts, etc- about another $100 to $150, and you can see where we are at. Typically we will get around $200-250 for the install, done in most cases in one day.

All in all, it still depends on what you want as far as quality, and what your budget will allow.

The best advise I would give:
IF you cannot afford a good kit, that you are comfortable with installing- WAIT. Do it when you can, do it once, and enjoy it, and be happy with the investment.

[Clyde65]

Ill second what Tincan1966 said. I put an EZwiring power window kit in my truck, it worked but I had to drill holes in the door that I really didnt want, but did it anyway. I have since removed it, welded up the holes and went back to roll up windows.

I have seen the Nurelic window kits in a 66 a couplke years ago and the owner did the install, he is very meticulous and picky about this truck, if it didnt work, look right and work well, it would NOT have been in his truck. just food for thought.

[1955 mancave]

thank you all for taking the time to respond, were all looking for info and thats why we are here, so it gives me more to think about before jumping in.

[Caudillo64]

Originally Posted by Clyde65

nurelic!

http://www.nu-relics.com/

Do you know if these are one piece or can you keep the wing window?

[66C06]

This is the kit I'm having installed on my truck, It retains the wing window or you can modify your door and tracks, etc to use a one piece window.