1950s 1957 CDV Driver's Electric Window Switch/Control

[My57CDV]

Does anyone have any diagnostic info on the Driver's side Electric Window switch control(for all 4 windows)
Front Driver window and Passenger back window switch control (lever) not activating windows. Back window functions with switch control at that window, so I know window motor/actuator works and All windows have always previously worked.  I have the Service Manual, but NO info found on this Front Switch Control (for all 4 windows).

If it has to be replaced .. suggested sources?

Serious Appreciation for Assistance!!
Mark Anderson

[Roger Zimmermann]

Effectively, there is nothing in the shop manual about the electrical windows. Plenty about the seat, but not even a schematic for the windows!
I'm attaching a copy from the '56 manual showing the connector. To check the windows is easy: you locate the red wire and check if you have 12 V. If yes, with a jumper wire, you coonect the red wire with each individual wire. If you don't have 12V, you may have a broken wire in the harness. It can happen after so many years...

[dn010]

Roger's method above is how I handled mine. Connect an alligator clip down into the red "feed" wire hole and then use the other end on the other wire holes to see what happens.

My issue was not the wiring, it was the master switch itself. After all these years, mine was so worn that if I pressed it down to lower a window, it would stay down until I manually centered the switch. Same for up, it would not reset itself as it should. This resulted in the thing getting hot and the contacts burning, I took it apart to confirm and attempt to rebuild it but mine was too far gone. I went on ebay and found a replacement switch from a later year that was much better at centering itself after use, I have not had a problem since replacing it although I find myself still making sure the switches are centered out of habit.

[J. Gomez]

Does anyone have any diagnostic info on the Driver's side Electric Window switch control(for all 4 windows)
Front Driver window and Passenger back window switch control (lever) not activating windows. Back window functions with switch control at that window, so I know window motor/actuator works and All windows have always previously worked.  I have the Service Manual, but NO info found on this Front Switch Control (for all 4 windows).

If it has to be replaced .. suggested sources?

Serious Appreciation for Assistance!!
Mark Anderson

Mark,

Detail information for troubleshooting as well as the wiring diagram for the electric window circuit can be found under the 1957 Shop Manual section 17-41 – 17-43.

If you follow the steps for troubleshooting by removing the main control switch and bypassing the up and down contacts at the main plug for the rear windows and all test ok, most likely the issue is with your main switch. These switches single and the 4-ones tend to get pitted with the high current switching for the motors. You may need to get these disassemble for cleaning and/or refurbished the brass contacts and plates.

They are a bit tricky to get the switch out just as an a FYI. 

Good luck.

[Roger Zimmermann]

It seems that it was too early this morning when I searched into the manual! Thank again, Jose!

[My57CDV]

THANK YOU Rodger for the '56 Switch details and directions!

THANK YOU Dan and Jose for the directions and comments also!

I'm not the Best with these electrical things ... hoping for the Best.

Mark

[TonyZappone #2624]

I purchased a new switch (repro)from Altha Fastener:  850 762 2179.  They close two months in the summer, so if you're gonna do it, get on it.  Wasn't cheap, as I recall but it works great

[My57CDV]

THANKS Tony Z for the PN.  They are currently Closed until June 30, 2025.