First I want to thank everyone who responded to this thread. I finished the regulator repair, and I want to share what I found.

1. It turned out the insert molded plastic on one of the two window support failed. When I remove the door trims to keep the window on track (in order to lift out the glass), I was able to get the glass to the 5.5" position by lifting and powering the motor. I didn't need to cut the cables. Now I have a regulator with one bad window support that someone can have.

2. I didn't need to remove the airbag. I just used a wire and hung it on the door off to the side.

3. Definitely needed the window clips. Thanks for the heads up.

Hope this helps other members.

Best, Ben