On my way to parts store, Have a question 1st?

[Steve47]

I'm having the problem of the wipers working whenever they feel like it so I'm going to replace the "Wiper Motor Pulse Board Module", I found one at the local Autozone. Here's the description of the part.

Cardone New / Wiper Motor Pulse Board Module
for a 1997 Chevrolet Truck Astro Van 4WD
Part Number:81-158PBWeight:0.34 lbs.Application:Front
Note:New

Is this the part to be replacing to correct this problem?

[old_master]

The pulse board is a known problem however, several things can cause what you're describing. Best to diagnose the problem before replacing parts.

[Steve47]

I just went out and put the ignition in the on position, went to the front of the van and the wiper motor was making a winding type of noise, wipers did not come on. Do you think it could be the wiper motor itself?

[old_master]

It could be that the gears in the motor are stripped. It could be a problem with the wiper linkage in the cowl, or it could be the pivots that the wiper arms attach to are stripped. If the wipers are frozen to the windshield, and you turn the wipers on, or use the wipers as an ice scraper, any of these problems can occur.

[Steve47]

Pivot arms are good, Any way I can check the linkage in the cowl you've suggested?

[old_master]

You can see it if you look through the grill just in front of the windshield. Turn the wipers on and you should be able to see it moving.

[Steve47]

Looked there. Nothing moving at all. Just the grinding sound from the motor. Tapped the motor a couple of times, nothing happening. Probably the motor. Think I'm on the right track?

[old_master]

Yup, probably stripped gears in the motor.