Replacing Power Window Motor?

Tiny
RCHMNDNY
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL
  • 4.6L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 153,000 MILES
Can anyone tell me if there is a way to replace the Rear Passenger side power window motor without removing the regulator assembly on the car listed above?
Friday, June 13th, 2025 AT 7:18 AM

9 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 52,185 POSTS
Nope, you must remove the regulator and then the motor, be warned when you remove the motor it will release the helper spring which has some leverage and can cause injury so be ready. I used to use vise grips on the regulator to stop the spring action while the motor is being swapped out. You will also need a large pop rivet tool you can use for your installation. You can rent one for free at the auto parts store.
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Friday, June 13th, 2025 AT 11:45 AM
Tiny
RCHMNDNY
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Ken, I just learned that if I drill these 3 dimples in the door that I circled on the attached photo in black, this will give me access to the 3 bolts to remove the motor, and the regulator will be left installed on the door.
Do you know if by removing the motor this way, the helper spring you mentioned will still release, or will it stay in place since the regulator is still attached to the door?

Thank you for your help.
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Monday, June 16th, 2025 AT 8:01 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 52,185 POSTS
Hmm, I have never replaced the window motor before this way. If the frame of the regulator stays bolted in, then you don't need to worry about the helper spring.
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Monday, June 16th, 2025 AT 10:14 AM
Tiny
RCHMNDNY
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
I will update you when I finish, if it ever stops raining. Thank you for letting me know about the helper spring. I will be mindful of this while replacing the motor. You saved me from losing a finger or worse.
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Monday, June 16th, 2025 AT 11:17 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 52,185 POSTS
No problem, that is what we are here for, I wish we could get some rain :/ maybe you can send some our way?
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Monday, June 16th, 2025 AT 11:23 AM
Tiny
RCHMNDNY
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
You were right, everything needs to be removed. Lincoln attached the motor wire to the regulator. The wire can only be removed and attached with the regulator out.
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Thursday, June 19th, 2025 AT 10:15 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 52,185 POSTS
Yep, I never heard of doing the job the way you suggested but you never know until you try. Did it have the helper spring and did it go back together okay?
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Thursday, June 19th, 2025 AT 10:32 AM
Tiny
RCHMNDNY
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Yes, thank you for your help.
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Thursday, June 19th, 2025 AT 10:45 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 52,185 POSTS
You are welcome, please use 2CarPros anytime we are here to help.
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Friday, June 20th, 2025 AT 10:23 AM

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