noob question - where to find an annoyingly small part (power window switch trim)

[Pokey]

A buddy of mine sheared off one of my rear power window switches ('91 Loyale) when he was putting a box in the rear seat. I need, at the very least, a new plastic trim panel for the switch, or the full window switch assembly if that's easier to come by and not too expensive. Problem is, I can't find either.

 

I'm pretty new to DIY auto work--not that this isn't something a blind monkey could do, but the problem is that I don't know much about sourcing parts. I searched the hell out of the intertubes, but wasn't successful at finding such a tiny part. Replacement window motor? Sure, tons of hits. Replacement window switch? No luck.

 

Any specific leads would be great, and/or, more generally, what are your go-to sources for tracking down Loyale parts? Like I said, I'm new to doing much of my own car work, but I'm hell-bent on getting another 100k out of this wagon, so I plan to learn!

 

 

This pic shows the sheared-off holes for the screws. This is the only part that actually broke.

[tractor pole]

I can't remember if they are held on with screws from the back side of the door panel or if they are a "plastic welded" stud that is melted against the back of the door panel,

 

either way the door panel needs to come off.

 

the best way to get one is from a junk yard, or from a member here that has an extra one laying around.

 

it looks intact, you might be able to fasten it back on with a little creativity. and the best part is most of the time it turns out to be really cheap or free.

 

Ben

[Numbchux]

Looks like both the screws that hold the trim to the door card AND the switch to the trim broke. Don't think I've ever seen that. I've had many of them break off the card though.

 

 

Yep, junkyard or right here on the USMB. Throw up a post in the wanted section, and a little paypalling, and you'll have one on your doorstep. I'd be willing to bet I've got a few around, as that's something I would have saved from any cars I've parted out, but I've got no idea where they might be now.

[Leeroy]

What about plastic welding? If you cannot find a replacement in the junk yards this is an option.

 

When I installed electric windows in my RX all the switch covers were broken in the same manner so I had them repaired by plastic welding - good as new!

[themoneypit]

here ya go, found this in about 20 seconds LOL

http://www.ebay.com/itm/GENUINE-SUBARU-LOYALE-90-94-RH-FR-POWER-WINDOW-SWITCH-/400216926913?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item5d2ec9aac1&vxp=mtr

[Pokey]

Cool, thanks.

 

It does screw on from the back. I have the thin metal retaining clip from the backside of the panel and the screws, and I think I collected all the parts to the switch itself so just need the trim ring.

 

Numbchux is right, the trim ring broke at both the holes that connect the switch itself to the trim ring AND at the holes that connect the whole assembly to the door panel. But again, the trim ring is the only part that's actually broken.

 

Not to beat a dead horse, but here's what it looks like on the door:

The holes in the door panel are where I took the retaining screws out. The broken off grey plastic tabs at the top and bottom of the switch are where the switch connected to the trim ring.

 

Plan A will be to check junkyards or post on the board.

 

Plan B was and still is some putty or plastic weld to recreate attachment points for the screws (but I was hoping to avoid making a mess and getting it stuck to the fabric of the door panel).

 

Edit: Ha, just saw the ebay link. Perfect. If I can't find the trim ring for a buck at a junkyard, I'll shell out for the whole assembly.

 

Thanks for your help.