Can't find Window Regulator clip

[gromittoo]

I went to change the Window Regulator on my 2001 Voyager, and I discovered that one of the two clips that hold the bottom of the window in the regulator was never installed. I guess the guy who installed the window in St. Louis back in 2001 had been out drinking with the guy who aimed the headlights so that at high beam, they hit the target for low beam.

Nobody seems to sell this clip. I called one of the few remaining dealers in my area, and theytell me that the clip is only sold with the window regulator kit. My regulator kit didn't come with one, and the clip is not likely to wear out, so that does not surprise me. Note my regulator cost 1/4 what the dealer wanted.

The clip I need is made of spring wire about 1mm thick. It is U shaped and is about 2 inches long and 3/4 inch wide. The window glass has two brackets glued to it on the bottom, and the bracket has a small metal stud on it. The stud goes into a hole in the part of the regulator that slides on the track. The clip slide in from the side, and engages into a slot machined into the stud.

Note this is the type of regulator that has cables and tracks, not the lever and spring variety. I am considering finding a smashed door at a junkyard, to get the clip, but i don't have the time. HELP!!!

[RIP]

Junkyard? Probably your best bet. A buddy needed a clip some years ago. Never found a source. Got one off a junked T&C. It wouldn't take long to get it. Take out a couple screws, pull the trim panel off. Tear back the inner plastic and you're there. Maybe you'll find one with the trim panel already gone. Another option? Try a good hardware store. Show them the clip and they may be able to come up with a suitable sub.
Maybe a body shop or glass shop.

[gromittoo]

I forgot to mention that I put the door back together, so I could use the van. I'd have to pull the door apart again to "borrow" the one clip holding the window, to show it to someone.

The parts guy at the dealer said that when their service department replaces a regulator, they throw away the old clips, and use the new clips already on the regulator. He also said he found a clip in somebody's coffee can of junk, but it wasn't the right size.

An Auto glass shop is a good bet. I am sure that one of those mobile glass repair guys keeps a stash of old clips for every car, just in case they break or lose one in the grass in the dark while replacing a window.

[migs_auto]

That brings up a good point that really I am just starting to do as a matter of course. With some sort of camera in just about every gadget these days, it is both easy and valuable (i know by experience) to take lots of pictures as you take things apart. The resulting pictures can help is re-assembly and in showing others for help.

Lesson here is before disassembling and whenever in doubt, take lots of pictures.

I am not trying to preach but my new found habit has proved valuable on several occasions and just wanted to share. Definitely worth the extra time.