Washer pump not working
Thread Starter
8th Gear
Joined: Jul 2021
Posts: 8
Likes: 1
From: Decatur IL
Washer pump not working
When I push in the washer switch the relay behind the passenger seat is making a grinding (shorted out possibly) sound. No washer fluid pumping. Washer fluid tank has fluid in it. Wipers work correctly in all modes otherwise. Should I replace the relay or is it common that it makes that sound? This is my first Corvette (1980) and have only owned it a couple months.
Last edited by AdamR4343; Oct 6, 2021 at 04:19 PM. Reason: Additional information
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,118
From: Crossville TN
You should open up the pump and maybe rebuild or replace it. With no fluid in it for extended period, the parts dry out and the valves cease to function. You may be able to free things up if you disassemble, inspect, and lube stuff with a wipe of Vasoline. Then try it again.
If you get it working, you need to keep fluid in it and use it occasionally (whenever you wash the car or it gets in the rain). That's the only way to keep it from drying out.
If you get it working, you need to keep fluid in it and use it occasionally (whenever you wash the car or it gets in the rain). That's the only way to keep it from drying out.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 5,472
Likes: 2,180
From: Loveland
Start by taking the plastic cover off the mechanism and watch it. You will be able to see what's not working. It could be electrical, mechanical, or water tubes. The washer pump isn't too hard to rebuild.
Yes,,, the relay would be a good place to start.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/382745158076
Yes,,, the relay would be a good place to start.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/382745158076
Last edited by kodpkd; Sep 23, 2021 at 01:01 PM.
