Windshield Wipers

evictor · 10-04-2006, 04:54 PM

Has anybody had problems with the windshield wipers working sporatically. Sometimes they cut out after a few minutes. Sometimes they will work for an hour with no problems. I have tried wiggling the switch as well as the wires going into the motor and can't duplicate the problem.

richtazz · 10-08-2006, 10:36 PM

The circuit board in the wiper motor that controls the delay function is the most likely suspect. Pretty common problem on GM vehicles with this design.

LMP · 10-15-2006, 04:33 PM

check this out
http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...d.php?t=512424
It seems the sheer weight of the wire bundle cracks the soldering points.
I have done mine AGAIN 2 months ago: the time before, I had forgotten to resolder one of the wire contacts....of course, it was the one that had cracked all round this time.
SO...just a soldering gun and a few drops of solder...and you are back with normal wipers. What model year is yours?

evictor · 10-15-2006, 06:41 PM

I just had a friend (who is pretty good with cars) just told me that he believes the problem maybe in in the "Multi switch" on the steering column. He said that you can't just replace the switch but you have to replace the whole steering column. Are we heading in the right direction

LMP · 10-16-2006, 08:01 AM

Definitely improbable. The wiper syndrome is a totally common GM car problem fully documented and it is caused by broken solder points in the electronic circuit board part of the wiper motor, just as suggested also by richtazz. THe links I gave you tells how to correct the problem:
you did not mention the year EDIT: OK I saw from your other posts this is a '96.....
but what relates to the electronic stands true, but the mechanical installation may vary deending on year: pre-93 do not have the slot allowing the motor to be pushed sidewards and some more dismantling of the linkage must be done to remove the motor upwards...most other installations for other cars and post 97 are more simple.
AS described in the link I gave you, the whole repair can be done in less than an hour at zero cost and is rather straight forward (the mention of the fuse and other gimmicks in the SUburban story - uses same motor assembly - were part of the testing , not of the solution: just resolder the contact spots with the plug).
The electronic card itself is widely avaiable on e-bay for 25bucks..but the soldering job does it all for free....

bobss396 · 10-18-2006, 01:29 PM

The only time I've replaced my multi stalk was when I couldn't feel the detents. The little "clicks" were gone. I bought an elcheapo from Rock Auto for around $45, which is not the same quality as a GM part. And it is a real pain to install.

The little board should be part of the washer motor assy. The wiper delay is built into them, not 100% if its that way in the APV. Again, buy a quality part. I've had 2 Napa units go bad on me.

Bob

evictor · 10-19-2006, 12:02 AM

LMP

THANK YOU...THANK YOU....THANK YOU......

I had two mechanics look at it, one telling me to replace the motor, one telling me to replace my streering column. I did the smart move and started with your solution first......guess what....it WORKS. You are a great asset to this Web Site......if you are every in Lower Michigan send me a message....I would love to buy you a beer. :-)

bobss396 · 10-19-2006, 07:22 AM

What part wound up being the culprit?

Bob

evictor · 10-19-2006, 12:28 PM

I had to re-solder the 4 connection points on the circuit board. Cost for repair nothing.....cost for wifes piece of mind.....priceless.

Balloon Man · 05-27-2007, 11:23 PM

I found this site because I have (had?) the identical problem with my '95 3.1 Lumina. I tried numerous things, (cleaning wire joints etc.), and was about to go to Parts Source to buy a new wiper motor. After reading your comments I decided to try your suggestions as I had nothing to lose anyway. Sure enough the solder joints in the Pulse Module were all cracked. Hardest part of the entire procedure was lining up the two motor holding bolts as I tried to put the motor back. Plus the contortions one needs to do to get under the long hood.

Thanks LMP......time will tell but I feel VERY optimistic.

TexasGuy · 06-09-2007, 12:15 AM

I had the same freaking problem. First time I had a hard time removing the motor. I have resoldered the contacts, worked well for a year then started quitting. Then it rained like cats and dogs and my wipers didn't work. Was a hell of fun time on a highway going 40 without even seeing shit. Next day I bought a new motor and removed once and for all the offending component.

I don't see a sense to resolder if it will break again. Get a new motor and don't risk your life.

Jeffi · 09-03-2007, 09:58 AM

Soldered mine last year according to instructions. Still works like a charm. Made me think maybe my faulty antenna was, in fact, a problem with a solder in my aftermarket radio and sure enough it was. Saved me the pain of trying to get at the antenna. Haynes book skips the page for the antenna. Haynes sent it to me so I have it on file.

Android_Gimpy6456 · 09-09-2007, 11:35 PM

So I have this exact same problem and the day I go to take it out and solder it, my van wont start. I'll get to this eventually right now I have the no start problem right the moment.

These Ads Open in New Window