(DIY) Replacing the rear view mirror in a Ranger
 

Good morning gentlemen!

I've been putting off replacing the shattered rear view mirror in my '04 Ranger for quite some time now, but the wifey drove my truck to pick up some ice this weekend and came back with a compelling, persuasive contention regarding the importance of having a fully-functioning mirror :p Here's a quick write-up on the job:


1) Remove the screw at the base of the mirror that secures the rear view mirror to the steel base plate using a Torx head screwdriver.

2) Lift the mirror straight up to remove it from the windshield.

3) Slide the new mirror onto the base plate. I bought a $20 OEM replacement from Part Detail and was happy with the price and quality.

4) Reattach the screw that secures the mirror to the base plate using a Torx head screwdriver.

**Remounting the Rear View Mirror Base Plate**
1) Loosen the set screw at the base of the rear view mirror using a Torx head screwdriver.

2) Pull the steel base plate from the mirror.

3) Place a piece of masking tape above the glue mark left after the steel base plate separated from the glass.

4) Clean the glue from both the windshield and the base plate using a razor blade.

5) Apply the glue from the rear view mirror mounting kit to the steel plate.

6) Press the base plate onto the windshield, just below the tape mark.

7) Hold the base plate in position for 10 to 15 minutes with your hand or a piece of masking tape.

8) Wait two to three hours before reinstalling the rear view mirror :cool: