swapping from manual windows, to Power. Anyone tried it?

[Spdrcer34]

I am the process of swapping from Manual windows on my X, to Power windows.....I already have the hardware swapped in, and ALL related wiring....not to mention that as part of the deal for the PWR windows, I had to install my old Manual windows into the donor vehicle, (note: it took a total of 38, 1/4" x 1/2" bolts & nylock nuts to replace all the rivets in a total of 8 doors)

I CAREFULLY pulled the MAIN wiring harness that goes to all 4 doors, and of course the wiring that is inside of all 4 doors.......now I need to splice that wiring into my vehicle.......any tips you guys may have?

Ryan

 

[JoshC]

Sounds like you've done alot of work. I was going to do the same thing to mine when i bought it 5 years ago, but i never did.

As for the wiring, if it were mine, i'd heat shrink all the connections and use a variety of different wire colors, try to stay consisitent with what you are splicing to, i'd say that would save a head ache or two in the future.

 

[Spdrcer34]

I have done my fair share of wiring....I know all about the importance of keeping wiring colors fairly consistant, and the use of solder and heatshrink.

I am using the factory wiring harness, so there's really not much wiring I need to ADD....

Ryan

 

[Spdrcer34]

But there was ALOT of wiring to delete!

My power window swap is about 75% complete now.

I have installed:

Power Window Mechanisms
Door Harness'
MAIN harness that powers Power Windows, Locks (that don't exist), Speakers, Mirrors, and jamb switches.

I have tested everything except the power mirrors (THAT button seems to be broke) and it worked! I am going to wire the windows so they have constant power (w/ a 30A fuse, like stock). As that seems more convenient than having to have the key in the ignition to make them work. It ALSO makes wiring them a little easier.

I have deleted the redundant speaker wiring (don't know WHY Ford did that) and made it much cleaner.

I have purchased the rear door panels, they are on the way.

I still need the front door panels (93 or 94 limited, Grey in Color).

Since I have shaved doors, I am going to also shave all remainants of door locks. So my plan is to remove the Door lock button, then fill & smooth the hole in the Driver Side and Pass. Side master switch panel. The 'bumps' and holes in the top of the panels will also be shaved. Like I said, there will be NOTHING that will resemble a door locking mechanism....

Ryan

 

[Vanquish502]

I would have just switched the doors...lol

 

[Spdrcer34]

If this were a STOCK vehicle, that would have been a viable option.....but the fact is, is that I shaved all 4 doors, have the actuators, and lock mechanisms already modified.......so my way IS the easier way...

Thanks,
Ryan

 

[94explorer2x4]

what do you mean bu redundant wiring???

 

[HappyGilmore]

I would have just switched the doors...lol

hahah i was about to say the same thing until i saw your post.

 

[TheFox88]

What?!! Explorers had manual windows? That mustbe rare. Just like before i got my X, i never knew Explorers had manual tranny's. Wierd. Good luck with the swap though.

 

[Spdrcer34]

redundant wiring in the speaker wiring.....my X was a Basic AM/FM stereo (read; NOT Premium Sound)....but I had the wiring connector in the Passenger side B-pillar that would have been used to connect the rear-amp, if I would have added one....or if the factory would have put one in.....so there is actually 2 pairs wires to and from each speaker.....2 pairs of wires to and from, for a speaker that needs only.....that is REDUNDANT!

I got all the wiring done today.....I was able to re-wrap the wires, it looks factory!...I even got the spacing right on the electrical tape wrap....lol

So I'm waiting on the rear door panels...

Ryan

 

[Spdrcer34]

This was a TOTAL strip-down model 1992 Explorer XL it had:

2 Wheel Drive
Manual Transmission
Manual Windows
Manual Cloth Seats
Manual Mirrors
Non-Lighted Visors
Non-Heated Rear Window
No Rear Wiper
Single Cup Holder
Standard AM/FM stereo

I have swapped in or added the following:

Power Windows
Power Leather Seats (Limited)
Power Mirrors
Lighted (Deluxe) Visors
Dual Cup Holder
Aftermarket Stereo
Overhead Console w/ Outside Temp. & Compass

Not to mention the extensive Exterior modifications.....Shaved Doors & Hatch, Roll Pan, 5" drop, 18" Saleen Rims.

Ryan

 

[94explorer2x4]

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I read through to fast the first time and misset the part that it was speaker wires. I thought you were talking about the power window harness. sorry about that ive gotta take the time to read before i post replys. ne way hope it works out and it seems as if you have a handel on it hope it goes well.
Nate

 

[Jason94sport]

I didn't do a swap, but had a shop convert the manual windows in my old Bronco II to power with a power window kit. Also added power locks & keyless entry. It was expensive for the time at $600. That was like 6 years ago.

 

[Spdrcer34]

$600!!!! Thats' expensive by todays standards too!

Honestly, you got a decent deal.......that's about what I would charge someone to do the same work I did....but I got my parts for free!....that's probably the ONLY reason I did it..

Ryan