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Windshield Wipers Don't Work.

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Old Aug 24, 2024 | 11:48 AM
  #1  
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Default Windshield Wipers Don't Work.

75 Vette

Problem:
Windshield wiper and washer doesn't work. The windshield wiper only works with either door open.

Troubleshoot.
I've got the wipers to work via a screwdriver to the closest ground, but the washer still doesn't work.
Once I repair the windshield washer ground I'm hoping the washer will work, or at least test power to the washer harness.

Questions:
Where is the proper ground for the windshield washer as I'd prefer to repair or replace, rather than add another ground elsewhere?

Last edited by Maymyvetteliveforevr; Aug 24, 2024 at 12:15 PM.
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Old Aug 24, 2024 | 12:44 PM
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The switch at the top of the gauge cluster itself needs to have a good ground to operate the system. If your cluster housing is broken, like so many are, you may be losing that ground connection. Pull the switch from the cluster, clip on a testing ground wire to the metal, and see if it works.

If that solves it, you either need a new cluster housing or you can rig up a ground wire from the switch to the birdcage.

Last edited by barkingrats; Aug 24, 2024 at 12:55 PM.
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Old Aug 24, 2024 | 03:57 PM
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The original ground for the heater motor and the wiper motor is a BLACK wire connected to a starter bolt or bell housing bolt.



Last edited by Peterbuilt; Aug 24, 2024 at 04:19 PM. Reason: ad photo
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Old Aug 24, 2024 | 07:54 PM
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Maymyvetteliveforevr
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Thanks for the replies

67:72
I repaired the gauge cluster couple years ago by adding a metal brace between the lower and upper section, but that doesn't guarantee it's grounded. I'll remove the upper section (windshield washer switch) and ground as you suggested and report back next week.
Peterbuilt
Am I to assume there are two grounds, 1 at the wiper switch and 2 at the starter? I'll check for the starter ground, does anyone know where the other end of the starter ground gets secured to "ground".

Last edited by Maymyvetteliveforevr; Aug 24, 2024 at 08:10 PM.
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Old Aug 24, 2024 | 11:32 PM
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Originally Posted by Maymyvetteliveforevr
Am I to assume there are two grounds, 1 at the wiper switch and 2 at the starter? I'll check for the starter ground, does anyone know where the other end of the starter ground gets secured to "ground".
Yes, the switch is grounded and the motor itself also has a ground. The motor ground should be on one of the 3 or 4 cover small bolts and is an L-shaped spade connector. The switch provides a ground path for the different wiper motor operations through the 3-prong harness connector.
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Old Aug 26, 2024 | 09:53 AM
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Update:
I don't see a ground on the starter or bellhousing, and the ground that is shown in the previous photo goes in through the firewall, into the dash. I'll assume that it goes to the gauges?

At this point, I know the wiper motor works, as I grounded the motor to the engine block and it works on low speed.

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