How-to Guide: Replacing rear windows with pop-outs

[BigRed]

Ironically after I posted I went on Ebay and found a set. Already got them tinted and will be installing today along with a screen setup. Ill post back the results

[neatvan]

Wanted to say thanks and kudos for this write up. Did the swap before my Baja trip and the added airflow made all the difference. Thanks!

[Eric D]

Great write up. This was really helpful when I replaced my windows. I wanted to add some supplemental information about newer vans with the window trim not designed for the pop out windows. I am sure there are many ways to do this but this is how I did it. And as long as you are in there, I recommend replacing the speakers.

[larrie]

Based on my experience here is the list of parts to get from the donor van. Get all of them the first time you are at the recycle yard. The parts you forget may not be there when you go go back for them. Don’t ask how I know.

1. Window latch and three screws. The latch mechanism unscrews from the bolt that goes through the window. Leave the bolt assembly attached to the window.
2. Window trim. Be assertive when pulling away from the retaining clips. The color of the trim does not matter. You can always spray paint it.
3. All metal clips and associated nuts that hold the window trim in place. Leave the hinges attached to the window.
4. The window.
5. The window frame that seals to the opening in the door. This is probably the most difficult item to remove. The butyl caulk makes for a tight and sticky seal to the door. Suggest wearing rubber gloves to keep the butyl off you hands and fingers.
6. The screw plate that the latch screws into.
7. Bottom door trim panels if you want matching upper and lowers.

[1der]

#6 is the most often missed piece in an uninstall from the donor. It clips onto the door metal from inside the door cavity. It makes install MUCH easier.

[larrie]

What he said

[BrianW]

And the annoying thing when doing a junkyard pull is you have to take apart the door panel to get access to the screw plate, since it installs from the underside.

[CactusJackSlade]

Maybe I missed it, but what years are good donor vans for this? I've got a 2009 and desperately need this mod!

[BrianW]

Any rear window from 1994 on up should work, as the rear doors were unchanged since the start of the most recent e-van body style.

[martinli]

As far as I know the pop-out windows have been build into our vans only until 1995.