How to Install Windows for 1995 Ford Windstar

The Ford Windstar, like most minivans, has two forms of windows. The adjustable windows on the front doors are installed within the door, while the other windows are fixed in place. Installing these windows depends on the type, since the process is different for each. Installing a front door window is a matter of fitting it within the regulator within the door. Installing fixed glass means sealing it in place, and this is a more difficult process. You may wish to speak with your mechanic before installing fixed glass.

Instructions

Remove the armrest, inside door panel and all door and window controls. Also remove all trim and molding mounted below the window. Slide the window glass down through the slot in the top of the door and into the door, resting the glass on the metal equalizer arm at the top of the window regulator.

Fasten the glass and its brackets to the regulator with a rivet gun. The rivet holes are located at the ends of the equalizer arm.

Insert the run channel for the glass into the door through the access hole near the outer edge of the door and bolt it in place through the door frame with your wrench; the bolt holes are in the rectangular-shaped depressions.

Insert the weatherstripping into the inner and outer sides of the window opening in the top of the door.

Stick the plastic water shield in place over the inner door using the plastic's own adhesive.

Install the door's inner trim panel in place using the panel's clips and then fasten it with its screws. There are two screw holes along the bottom edge of the panel and one more at the top rear corner.

Clip the smaller trim panels to the door -- the cover behind the mirror and the one surrounding the door handle. Connect the window/door control panel's electrical connector and connect it to the armrest, or connect the manual window crank with its clip.

Clean all contaminants from the window opening using rags, water and compressed air (whatever is necessary) and wait for the surface to dry.

Apply beads of butyl sealant to the edge of the window opening using a caulking gun. Apply the beads in diagonal lines that point downward toward the edge of the opening.

Apply more beads with a urethane sealant in diagonal lines that point in the opposite direction, forming a triangular-shaped pattern with both compounds that follows the entire edge of the window opening.

Place the glass up against the window opening, pressing it against the sealant. Hold it in place for as long as it takes for the butyl sealant to cure.

Wait until the urethane sealant has time to cure (it will take longer than the butyl, because the butyl keeps the glass in place for the time being) before operating the van.