Seized Windscreen Wippers

[Mudpi]

Ok so I've had my 73 240 for a week now- the first problem, a fuel leak proved to be no big deal, and took seconds to fix- happy me, untill.....

For gawd knows what reason, my windscreen wipers have jammed- one second they're doing fine, then they slow then- stuck. Wont respond to the switch, and can't be forced one way or the other, I'm hoping this is some famous 240 quirk, and maybe ther's some trick to it but the previous owner- a decent guy- has no idea.

Can anybody help?

[Daniel]

What was the leak fix?On the wiper issue.Check your fuse.Located left side,second down,20amp.Check witha meter or replacement as visual can trick you.If blown either it got weak (normal wear) or died in the line of duty(doing its job).If bad replace and test.If it pops again.Remove wiper arms(noting how they are positioned)and test.I have seen them slip and jam due to incorrect position.If fuse isgood you need to check your switch.On the firewall/rear bulkhead(searching what your term is)Just slighty beside the hood latch there is a wire bundle going into the firewall.Those are the wiper wires.Disconnect the connector and check for voltage on/off caused by turning wiperswitch on/off.Remember the wire into the firewall is NOT thecorrect end to check!Got voltage? Remove slotted panel to get access to wiper area(Remove the visable screws, then it comes off easy)Check linkage for binding,lube linkage joints with spray lube.If still no go,remove the wiper motor and repair/replace.WARNING!!note the position of the linkageand wipermotor before removal.I didn't and when I hit my wipers they took off across my hood!!!Hope I didn't give to much info.If you want more just ask!Have Fun!!

[Dave Sommers]

All those things in previous post are good. Most of the wiper problems I have seen are due to just two things, corroded wiring connectors or more commonly corroded or badly worn pivot posts - the posts that the wiper blade arm is attached to.

If when the wipers actually work, they move across the window at a snails pace - even if lifted off the glass, you have binding in the wiper drive train. This is most probably in the pivot point bushing and post. Check the rubber boots around the post - if they are still even there. If age damaged or gone, then water has washed out the lube and the posts are binding. Disassemble the system and you can carefully take apart the posts. Clean everything out well until parts work well together then regrease and put it all back together. Wipers usually will be back up to speed. Make sure to replace the rubber boots - they are cheap.

Good luck.

[Mudpi]

Thanks guys,

I've got a mate coming round tommorow to give me a hand- what with me being useless and all, and, since I've got the day of-we'll have a nosey around and see whats going on. I'm a bit inclinde to think it might be a mechanical thing, since they kinda drew to a slow freeze rather than just cut out, but hopefully I'll find out tommorow.

R

[Daniel]

Should you remove the wiper linkage it is an excellent time to clean the crap out of the wiper "pan"make sure the drain is clear and spray rust killer in the area.If that area rust thru it leaks into the car onto your feet.I believe in doing it right the first time and move on to something else.Hours of enjoyment aren't they mate?Have FUN!!! Daniel

[Mudpi]

News so far

Had a look, the fuse was gone, but on testing ~ 30amps was gaoing through there so I guess that explains that- I bridged the fuse and tried again- no joy, no noise of anything from the wipper motor. The dude that was with me was thinking a short in the wiper motor or something- but confidence levels are low as far as this guys is concerned. I've (from last post) a pal coming round tonight and I'll give it anouther shot.

[Mudpi]

Fixed.

Had, after a bit of problem solving ( thanks to the above posts) and auto electrician come round.

In, like four seconds he stripped the wipper motor down cleaned all the conections lubed it up- found the problem a fused (melted swich in the relay)chucked it all together again and was off an hour latter in a puff of smoke.

Done for half the price of a new motor.

what a guy - now for the locks, drivers door hinge and time to find a new center console.

(if anyone in Melbourne Australia knows a good place for spares drop me a line)

R