this is probably a question asked a few times, but will a 73-79 back window fit in a 81 f250?

 

I've been told 73-96 windows are interchangeable.

 

Yes it will fit, but it's overly complicated.

If the glass is 1973-1979 factory original, it is thicker than the one on your 1981, and you should use the seals from the 1973-1979 era window for a proper fit. It will still work, but the 1980+ era seals will not fit the window right. (I also know from experience)

Here are the seal numbers for the 1973-1979 that will closely match what's on the 1981, that will fit the older thicker glass.

D3TZ-1042084-A (Rear Window seal, Fixed or Sliding Rear Window. (without plastic molding) Fits 1973-1979.

D7TZ-1042084-A (Rear window seal, fixed window only) (For acceptance of Plastic window molding) Fits 1977 after serial #080,000. and 1978-1979.

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In 1980 they reduced the thickness of the rear window and they made a updated seal to fit it.

To make matters more complicated, Ford made obsolete the window seal that fit the thicker glass, and the thicker glass that came on the 1973-1979 trucks. The 1973-1979 now use the 1980-1996 glass and weatherstrip as a servicepart for all 1973-1996.

So the 1973-1979 could have the original thicker glass, or the same thinner glass your 1981 has now.

So here are the seal numbers for the 1980-1996.

D3TZ-1042084-A (Factory Sliding Rear window only) (1980-1981 only)
EOTZ-1042084-A (Fixed Rear Window, No Plastic Insert)
EOTZ-1042084-B (Fixed Rear Window, With Plastic Chrome Insert)
E2TZ-1042084-A (Factory Sliding Rear Window only) (1982-1996)

 

so... i need the window and seal from the 73-79 window to put in the 81?

 

Correct. This will insure a proper fit of the glass and seal.

 

alright. thanx for the info!