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Old 05-27-2014, 08:15 AM   #1
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Chevy Express Rear Window Defrost

I am converting a 2010 Chevy Express AWD cargo van into our basic camping unit. The cargo vans have fixed non opening windows on the side and rear doors. I picked up a set of side and rear doors from a passenger version van to have opening windows. The rear door windows have electrically heated defrost. I'm not sure that the wiring loom on our cargo van has the wiring in place for the defrost system or the activation switch. Can anyone tell me (or a picture) of the switch placement and any other details? I'm also considering running a new wiring circuit to use the defrost system. Would the defrost system need a timer relay to limit the time that the heat elements are activated. I think the relay would need to handle about 30 amps?? I appreciate any thoughts - thanks.

Jim

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Old 05-29-2014, 04:16 AM   #2
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Re: Chevy Express Rear Window Defrost

Most factory-installed rear window de-icing systems tend to have the timer and current relay built into the dash mounted switch. I'm not familiar with the Chevy van version though---I'd look for one with this already installed and see how its handled as a new option.

From there I'd look for a wrecked van near your same year and cut the pig tail lead for the rear window defroster system, perhaps the switch would be there too. If not the dealer would be one choice, eBay another.

If you choose to run your own wire I'd use nothing less than a 10 gauge wire since you're running maybe 30 amps 20' or more. I can direct you to a variable time delay relay good for a max of 10 amps, could be used as a pilot switch for a heavier relay. It could also function to set the off time after start, all solid state and about $30 for most versions.
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Old 05-30-2014, 08:54 AM   #3
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Re: Chevy Express Rear Window Defrost

Hi JWA,

Thanks for your suggestions. I have been watching Craigslist and online wrecking yards for a Chevy Express passenger van to salvage the system.

Jim
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Old 05-30-2014, 09:11 AM   #4
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Re: Chevy Express Rear Window Defrost

you might try alldata to see if you can track down the wiring diagram. Please keep us posted with your progress. I have a Chevrolet that I would like to change the rear windows from fixed to opening. Have you mounted yours yet? I was looking at mine the other day and there are flat spots where the hinges and the handle mount but there are no holes for the bolts and I wasn't sure about how they would seal against the body. I would like to see some pics of your project.
Thanks
Jim
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