My turn to ask about windows - please advise

[Fct]

I parked the car this morning and went to the office. I come back to the car this afternoon and the driver side window was completely down. I am sure the windows were up and the alarm was on. Can anyone tell me if it is possible for the window regulator to suddenly fail and drop the window open?

Thanks in advance for your comments.

 

[javajohn]

The OEM plastic window regulator retainers break releasing the cables that raise and lower the windows.

I purchased billet aluminum window regulator retainers from SOS for $20.00. They are a direct replacement for the OEM plastic ones and should never fail.

 

[Jett]

Can anyone tell me if it is possible for the window regulator to suddenly fail and drop the window open?

Yes, that is most likely what happened. This is a common failure that I recently experienced. I had the regulator removed and sent to regulatorusa.com for repair. They rebuilt it better than new (sturdier rebuild than stock) for $85 plus $8 round-trip shipping. Note that they don't rebuild the motor, only the regulator mechanism itself. Regulators are their only business, they know it well, and they get the regulator back to you fast. Mine has been reinstalled and has never worked better!

Or you could have the dealer take care of it for maybe $800, including the cost of a new regulator.

Make sure your 1991 NSX has the Dali window fix-it thingies installed on your regulator. If you don't have these you should get them.

 

[Fct]

Javajohn and Jett,
Thanks for the advise...I appreciate it.

 

[javajohn]

There in a link to instructions on how to replace the window regulator retainers but I cann't remember where it is. It has step by step instructions with pictures. It clearly shows how the retainers hold the ends of the cabels and why your window will drop down into the door if the retainer breaks. It is a comon problem that is why I bought the $20.00 aluminum retainers.

Does anyone else know where the window regulator retainer instalation instruction link is?

 

[Cozmo]

http://daliracing.com/v666-5/download/window_fix_thingies_install_EZ.pdf

I just ordered a set from SOS yesterday. I've been so paranoid about my windows that I've only rolled mine down once (at the bank drive through) since i got my car. As far as I know they work just fine but i'll feel better once I install these thingies.

 

[Fct]

Just a quick update to this matter:
I asked RegulatorsUSA about their services and they directed me as to what to do; relatively easy and streamlined system. My Acura dealer here in Vancouver is asking if there is such a service in Canada and I said that I do not think so...too bad. I was told that it takes one day to repair/ rebuild. So I am hoping that it will be rectified by next weekend.

In the meantime, I am investigating this Aluminum Billet or Dali-Fix-it-Thingy. I would like to have it all done properly now if the regulator is being repaired.

 

[Cozmo]

Here's more..
http://www.nsxprime.com/FAQ/DIY/thingy_install.htm
I think I'll pick up some cheap pliars to do this on my way home today so I'll be ready.

 

[javajohn]

Cozmo

Thanks for the link. I couldn't remember how to find the instalation information. I have to install the SOS retainers that I bought. I have been putting off changing out the OEM retainers on my 1991. My windows are working fine but it sounds like the retainers break without warning. I like doing the work myself when I can but I have to be in the mood so that I don't tear things up.

 

[Cozmo]

I'm going to dynamat inside my doors too while I have it open.. as well as grease the window tracks. Hopefully I won't need to take my door panels off every again after that.

 

[angus]

If you need them , I have the aluminum blocks in stock.

 

[Fct]

Just a quick update to this matter:
I asked RegulatorsUSA about their services and they directed me as to what to do; relatively easy and streamlined system. My Acura dealer here in Vancouver is asking if there is such a service in Canada and I said that I do not think so...too bad. I was told that it takes one day to repair/ rebuild. So I am hoping that it will be rectified by next weekend.

In the meantime, I am investigating this Aluminum Billet or Dali-Fix-it-Thingy. I would like to have it all done properly now if the regulator is being repaired.

Just want to report that RegulatorsUSA did an excellent job and it took them one day to rebuild my regulator; and sent be FedEx the next day. Most of the time was spent in transit, 4 days to get to New York and 7 days to return to Blaine, Washington. Dealer installed it and it is as good as new. My cost was about 450C$ versus 800 to 850C$.

Now I am worrying when the window regulator on the passenger side door will break.

 

[Jett]

Now I am worrying when the window regulator on the passenger side door will break.

Passenger's side doesn't get anywhere near the use that the driver's side gets - I don't think you have anything to worry about.