A very technical question about window switches.
 

On the drivers door, the switch for the driver's window has a problem. The right side of the switch pulls out a little bit when pushing up or down then will stick down or up sometimes. Since my the power to the windows still is on without the key in the ignition, I've drained the battery a couple times not realizing the switch was stuck.
Ok, no big deal I think I replace the switch. BUT, here's where it's technical. The faulty switch looks identical to the other two switches except it is a glossy smooth finish, where the others are more flat and a bit textured. I'm assuming the flat, textured finish is factory and maybe the bad one is a replacement. Does anyone know? Also, does anyone know what the switch looks like from Pelican?
Thanks all.
Also do you just pop off the switch, or do you have to take the door panel off?

My car (the electric Frankenstein!) has both types of switches; I have trouble with the glossy one but the textured ones work fine. Its odd that the switches still have power with the key off; on my '83 they don't. You can rock the switch out without removing the panel. Take your time and don't try to force it.

Factory original is smooth and shiny..at least for my 85 Carrera. You have an "always on" PW relay that is draining your battery, if not the switch. Usually door plunger switch related.

I remember replacing mine and they had a more glossy appearance or was it textured??? At any rate - they worked the same so I didnt care.

Its best to push out the switch from behind to replace the switch - so yes the panel has to be semi off (enough to get your hand in there). You could just pry the old one out from the from but that may damage your panel or the metal bezel that the switch sits in or even worst, you pull the switch off its wires and you dont know how they go back on - so its not advised.

On a side note - your windows more than likely stay powered because the door plunger has corroded and the circut stays open (or closed i dont know). I found out the same way.

Man - Wil beat my reply by exactly 0 minutes!!

Not so Super, Dave!:D

Sorry Dave..... LOL !
If its any consolation, your post had a bunch more detail !!!

If you need to replace a switch on the drivers door you have 2 options:
- Buy two so they have the same finish and save the 2nd one as a spare.
-Buy one and put it on the passenger door and use the old passenger door switch on the drivers side (too much hassle in my opinion).
Be sure to make a wiring chart so you'll be able to put the new switch in correctly!!!
Also, bear in mind that the new switches don't last as long as the factory originals. If you are going to throw out an old working switch, let me know and I'll pay postage for you to send it to me. :cool: