how do i fix the power windows on an 81 elco..?? it had been sitting for a while now the windows just dont work..where do i start.

Crash, I know it's a stupid question, did you check the fuse? Next try giving the door panel a whack near the switch while holding the the switch in the down position. If that doesn't work try pushing down (not to hard)on the glass while holding the switch in the down position. If the windows worked OK prior to the car sitting for awhile, it could be the electrical contacts may have corroded slightly. The switches are not the greatest quality. You may need to remove the door panel, pop the switch out, open the switch up (2 piece) and clean the contacts. It could also be the contacts on the motors.

thats not a stupid question...i think that that may be the problem..im not sure if the windows worked prior to me getting it...the car had been sitting for a long time on a farm in riverside..lol...but i will follow your advice about the connections..thanks ..Is it hard to install a new motor..im not 100 % sure but i think the passenger side doesnt even have the motor in it..when i got the car the window was busted..

Most power window problems are caused by defective up and down switches that have worn contacts. Even Auto Zone sells replacement switches for about $26.00.

Another possibility is the wiring harness where it goes between the door and pillar, sometimes the wires become brittle and break/short out. You could try moving the harness as you hit the switch or check the continuity if the other checks don't work out.

Is it hard to install a new motor.

The motor and trans assy is rivited to the door with very large pop rivites. Unless you have the proper rivit tool, It will be very hard. You can probally rent the tool.