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How to Repair a Window Defroster

Window defrosters operate by conducting small amounts of electricity along conductive strips taped to the window. You are left with a window that will not defrost fully when one of the strips fails. Total system failure implies that you blew a fuse, which is a 20 cent repair. However, a damaged strip requires locating the impacted area and repairing it. Repairing the defroster means repairing the grid or strips running along the window or reattaching the electrical connection on the side of the glass.

Instructions

Repairing the Grid

1

Test the grid (the thin metal strip running horizontally across your window). Turn the ignition to "ON" and turn on the rear defrost. Place one terminal of the multimeter (set to DC volts) on the grid at the center of the line and the other on the thick vertical strip to which the grid connects. The multimeter should read six volts when testing from the center of the grid line to the side. A reading of 12 volts indicates the damaged section is between the terminals.

2

Bring the terminals closer together. Monitor the reading as you do. Isolate the section of the grid that reads 12 volts. This section is your damaged area that needs to be repaired. Mark both sides of the damaged area with a grease pencil. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 with the remaining grids marking any damaged areas.

3

Transpose the marks to the exterior of the window. Trace the line with a straight edge and a grease pencil.

4

Clean the window thoroughly first with glass cleaner and paper towels and then with rubbing alcohol and paper towels.

5

Place strips of masking tape above and below the area to be repaired so that you have a straight line after painting it.

6

Paint the strip using the conductive paint from the grid repair kit. Shake the bottle vigorously and apply two coats. Wait five minutes before applying the second coat and two more minutes before removing the masking tape.

Repairing the Electrical Connection

7

Disconnect the electrical connection from the wiring harness.

8

Clean the area of the damaged electrical connection with window cleaner and then rubbing alcohol. Use a flat head screwdriver to smooth out any bumps or old glue spots before cleaning.

9

Place a few drops of the adhesive to the back of the electrical connection and firmly press into place. Hold the unit in place for a minute and release. Allow the section to set for 24 hours and reconnect the electrical harness.

Posted by Unknown at 10:30 AM

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