1st Gen Toyota 4Runner Power Window Switch Repair

2 years ago
13

Repairing the passenger side power window switch on an '80 vintage Toyota 4Runner or pickup (Hilux or Hilux Surf).

The factory power window switch is a multi-piece design and relies on self-tapping screws to hold the plastic bezel to the switch body. Not only is there the force of the switch contacts but there's also the force of the return spring trying to rip the screws out of the plastic bezel. Over time, that plastic turns brittle and the screws start to break free of the plastic and loosen. This makes the switch harder to operate, so you naturally press harder to get the window to move and ultimately the switch breaks.

My original epoxy resin repair:
https://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/index.shtml#WindowSwitch
Held up for around 10 years but ultimately failed in the same manner.

Switch Doctor links:
https://www.switchdoctor.net/toyota-window-switch/
https://amzn.to/3B3ou0K
2021 pricing was under US$20 for the new switch.

Note, only the single passenger switches are available, the multi-position driver's side switches are not. Luckily since they have 4 or more screws holding them together, they seem to be much more robust. I don't plan on touching the switch on the driver's side because it still works fine and I'm afraid if I do take it apart, that may weaken the plastic and cause to a failure down the road. As they say "if it ain't broke, don't fix it".

More to come...
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