GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 38864 Door Module Coil Spring Tool

Removal Procedure

Caution: Do not attempt to service the regulator motor without releasing the counterbalance spring tension. The regulator lift arm is under tension from the counterbalance spring and can cause personal injury if the motor is removed from the regulator.

  1. Remove the front door trim panel. Refer to Front Side Door Trim Panel Replacement .
  2. Remove the front door water deflector. Refer to Front Side Door Water Deflector Replacement .
  3. Using a flat-bladed tool, press in on the retaining tabs to release the front door window from the sash.
  4. Apply the cloth backed body tape from the window over the top of the door to the other side of the window in order to hold the window in position when the removing the regulator.
  5. Disconnect the wiring harness from the regulator motor.
  6. Important: Draw a line across the spring through the center with a marker or grease pencil in order to aid in the re-installation and orientation of the counterbalance spring.

  7. Use J 38864 in order to release the regulator spring tension.
  8. Walk down the spring tension.


    Object Number: 319779  Size: SH
  9. Unsnap the power window motor in order to remove the power window motor from the lock module.
  10. Turn the window counter balance spring stud ¼ turn counterclockwise and remove from the module.
  11. Remove the regulator from the lock module.

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the regulator to the lock module.
  2. Lubricate the motor drive gear and the regulator sector teeth.
  3. Install the window counter balance spring stud to the module and turn ¼ turn to lock in place.

  4. Object Number: 319781  Size: SH
  5. Snap the power window motor to the lock module in order to install the power window motor.
  6. Important: Ensure the marker or grease pencil line from the removal procedure is lined up. Lining up the mark will set the correct pre-tension of the counterbalance spring.

  7. Use the J 38864 in order to install the spring tension. Walk up the spring tension.
  8. Connect the wiring harness to the regulator motor.
  9. Remove the tape from the door glass and position the glass.
  10. Slide the window sash onto the door glass.
  11. Install the front door water deflector. Refer to Front Side Door Water Deflector Replacement .
  12. Install the front door trim panel. Refer to Front Side Door Trim Panel Replacement .