Anyone have the steps to replace the tailgate window switch om a 70 Vista? I took the inner panel off and it sure doesn't look like that's the right way to do it. I'd rather not break something figuring it out.

Thanks

 

I did one years ago. Don't remember all details, but had to lower gate, and raise the window, and support it. I think my dash switched worked, so used it, but if I remember correct, you have to by pass a safety switch, so you will need some one to help you. If you have a repair manual, I think it shows you how. Ones the window is out of your way, it is easy to get to. Also I think I was able to get the switch from GM.

 

The service manual goes over how to test the switch once it is out of the car, but not how to get it out of the car. Even with the window up, all the structure supporting the window and the motor/drive still looks like it will be blocking the key switch.

 

^^^THIS. You have to raise the window with the tailgate open, which requires you to hold the interlock switch closed while someone operates the dash switch. Of course, you have to be careful not to run the window all the way to the end of the track.

 

Why wouldn't I take the inner panel off, close the gate, roll up the window and do the work from inside the car?

 

You could. I'm 6' 2" and find that extremely uncomfortable. Plus, it means you need someone outside to catch the lock cylinder as you free it.

 

If you didn't get this sorted out yet I can offer my experience as I rewired the tailgate on my '67 back in 2006. It has worked flawlessly ever since.

It turned out the dash switch and rear key switch had burned contacts and just needed to be cleaned up. I did have a failed safety switch on the rear window that I either had to bypass or replace. The safety switch is inside the gate near the upper catch on the passenger side. This switch has to be closed for the window to be able to go up. Bypassing is not a good long term solution as without it the window can be run up with the gate down (glass will dangle unsupported) or with the gate ajar (missing the tracks that hold it in place).

I replaced the limit switch with a lever arm switch that was about the same size and I made it work. Sorry but I can't find any record of the part number but I think it was something you could get off Amazon. I made the window motor run better by using 12v auto relays to take the load off the switches. The relays are mounted up behind the tail lights in the spare tire compartment where the tailgate harness passes through. The various switches now just drive the relay coils so you get more consistent operation and keep the switches from burning contacts. Thankfully I did a wiring diagram based on the one I found in the '67 Assembly Manual. I will attach the original diagram and my update with relays. Good luck.