How to Remove/Replace Manual Crank Window Handle
by G6CivCX

Due to popular demand, this is how to remove the manual crank window. It applies to Lancers in general with manual windows.

Parts Required:

• None. Replace parts as needed.

Tools Required:

• clip removal/installation tool - http://www.cardomain.com/sku/SOU87600 - This tool is highly recommended. It will save you a lot of hassle and damage on your car. It's only $3.50. You can get the job done with other methods, but this writeup will walk you through with this tool or equivalence because it is the easiest to get the job done.

Time Required:

• 2-5 minutes per handle

Background

A lot of RS owners have requested this writeup. You need to remove the window crank handle to remove the door panel to install front speakers or to strip for weight reduction.

This is the enemy.


This is your ally. As you can see, it's a very simple tool. It's designed to slide between the crank handle and the rubber gasket to pop out the retaining clip.


Procedure

1. It is best to take your time. Do not get impatient and force the tool in or you'll cratch your car up. I can pop it out in about a few seconds. With practise, you can do it fairly quickly. So be patient your first time around.

2. Insert the tool with the handle facing out. Insert it between the handle and the gasket.


3. Gently press the tool and slide the inner portion of the tool into the handle.


4. Continue to insert it gently. Do not force it or you will scratch it up. Just gently work it in there.


5. Now gently turn the tool around the stem of the handle. Take it easy and don't scratch the door panel.


6. Continue to turn the tool. It will take about 2 complete revolutions to loosen the retaining clip.


7. Round and round we go


8. Keep going I find that it's best to gently turn the handle and slide the tool in the other direction to loosen the clip.


9. Here you can see that the spring has popped off and the handle is about to come off. Be extremely careful at this step! People call this the oh sh** clip for a reason; it compresses under pressure and then flies off into infinity. So cover the handle with both hands and prepare to catch the clip.


10. Another view.


11. Sorry for the blurry picture. The handle just slides off. See how the yellow retaining clip can compress and fly off the handle very easily.


12. Another view.


13. Here are all the parts.


That's it. The handle is off. Proceed with whatever you want to do next.

Here's how you put it back.

1. Put the gasket back on the handle. Notice that the gasket is asymmetrical. If you put it in backward the handle won't sit flush with the door panel. So turn it right side up. This is the correct orientation.


2. Slide the clip onto the handle. Note the orientation. Be careful and don't scratch yourself or let the clip fly off.


3. Insert the clip into the notches of the handle. Note the orientation.


4. All you have to do now is just slide it straight back onto the stem on the door. It will slide right in. Put a little pressure on it and the clip will spring into place. That's it. Putting it on is very easy!

And there you have it. I hope that you did not scratch it too badly With practise, this becomes a very easy task without much hassle or damage. Good luck!

 

Thanks, Ken!

 

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