How to Get the Window Crank Off a '98 ZX2

From 1983 to 1996, Ford offered its customers a more exciting-to-drive economy car in the form of the Escort GT. In 1997, Ford released an all-new body style and axed the GT trim from its lineup. Ford in 1998 filled the vacant spot where the Escort GT had been with the Escort ZX2, which Ford changed to just ZX2 in 2002. The 1998 ZX2 did not have the option of power windows, so owners and passengers were stuck having to laboriously turn that crank in order to lower the window an archaic task. Regardless, removing this crank is a little tricky, as there are no nuts and bolts holding it, just a hidden clip.

Instructions

Removal

1

Pull outward lightly on the window crank so you can get a view of where it mounts to the window regulator shaft. Locate the ears of the U-shaped metal clip that secures the window crank to the regulator shaft.

2

Turn the window crank so the ears on the metal clip face upward.

3

Slide the window crank removal tool behind the window crank until you feel it contact the ears of the metal clip. Position your free hand under the window crank and push the window crank tool downward to disengage the clip. Catch the clip with your other hand as it falls.

4

Pull the window crank off the regulator shaft.

Installation

5

Press the U-shaped metal clip into its slot on the rear of the window crank until it seats into place.

6

Align the hole in the rear of the window crank with the regulator shaft.

7

Push the window crank onto the regulator shaft until you hear the retaining clip snap into place, thereby securing the window crank.