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Dang windshield wipers

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Old Dec 4, 2024 | 12:59 PM
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Default Dang windshield wipers

I am completing restoration of my 71 and cannot get the wipers to work, Bench test the wiper motor and works great. Wiring in car seems correct and new switch. I've got wiper door permently open to test wipers. A couple times during testing at the switch the wipers move slowly one or two rotations but then stop. This issue has become the toughest part of the restoration so far, Please help me.

Last edited by xxwidowmaker5xx; Dec 4, 2024 at 01:24 PM. Reason: where do i start
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Old Dec 4, 2024 | 01:44 PM
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Make sure the switch between the pull downs for the headlights and wipers is not in the stop position.
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Old Dec 4, 2024 | 01:52 PM
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Sounds like you have the wiper switch in the dash plugged in backwards-
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Old Dec 4, 2024 | 03:23 PM
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Dash switch must be grounded to function.
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Old Dec 4, 2024 | 11:00 PM
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Originally Posted by Hammerhead Fred
Dash switch must be grounded to function.
^This.^ The switch provides the circuit's ground through the cluster housing, so the housing needs to be installed and the switch mounted. If the housing is broken (which is pretty common), the switch needs an add-on jumper between the switch's metal exterior and a ground.

There's a second ground needed at the motor's housing, which is shared with the blower motor as part of the engine harness.
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Old Dec 5, 2024 | 05:51 AM
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Yes, biggest issue with 76 and earlier wipers is ground at center cluster. Triple check this. The switch works on ground, not power. Super important. If your bench tests are good.
Triple check switch grounding through the center gauge cluster and beyond.
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Old Dec 12, 2024 | 07:16 AM
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Also, with the wiper door open so you can test, be sure the button on the firewall is being depressed by the bracket on the wiper door. That button is to confirm the door is open fully before allowing the wiper motor to energize.
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Old Dec 12, 2024 | 07:54 AM
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One other tip is not to check grounds with a multi meter. The meter may show 12 volts but still be a weak ground. Use a test light, you want to see a nice bright light.
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