Window Replacement Complexity re 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Drivers Side Window

[brmille007]

Hello All:

I was hoping someone can tell me whether it is a small project to replace a drivers side window in a 2002 Ford Explorer SPORT (2 - door).

Or should I have a professional do it. I am trying to save a few bucks and am not a dunce when it comes to fixing things.

Any feedback would be appreciated. - Brian from Reseda

[shorod]

Welcome to the forum!

It's not a big deal to change the window. Are you just changing the window, or are you needing to do the window regulator as well?

Have you had door panels off before and performed this type of work in the past?

-Rod

[brmille007]

Hello Rod,

No, I haven't performed this type of work in the past but all I need is to change the window.

Someone saw my wallet on top of the center console and the window was in the way.

[shorod]

That's a bummer about the broken window and probably theft. I bet you don't leave your wallet in sight again though. Hard way to learn a lesson.

Hopefully the window replacement won't be as hard of a lesson. I did take a look at the service manual for this repair though and apparently Ford took a step or two backwards by using the 1/4" heavy duty rivets to hold the front windows in on a 2002 Explorer Sport. The procedure says the rivets need to be removed to release the window and new rivets installed with the new glass. Hopefully Way2Old or someone with experience changing one of these windows will speak up and let you know if it is in fact necessary to drill out and replace the rivets.

If you'd like to peruse the procedure from the service mahual, send me a private message with an e-mail address for you and I'll e-mail it to you.

If you do need to install new rivets and need the tool, I found that the local Harbor Freight Tools store carried it.

-Rod

[way2old]

You do need to drill out the rivets. But you can replace the rivets with bolts of the same size. Just be extremely careful not to tighten them too much. The glass shatters easily. Also use a nylok nut so you don't have to keep tightening the nut because of rattles. Good luck.