97 Taurus Wiper Switch - Need Replacement Instructions

[dave3266]

Good Morning,
Need some help -- Wipers are malfunctioning on my wife's 97 Taurus.

While wipers are on regular speed (not intermittent/delay), they will periodically stop for a few seconds, then move again, stop, move again, etc.
Also, intermittent speeds have not worked properly for some time (all delay time selections seem to be the same rather than shorter to longer lengths of delays). I'm assuming the problem is in the wipers witch on the turn signal arm.

Do I need to remove the steering wheel, air bag, etc in order to replace the switch? (I've already located instructions for removing steering wheel & air bag -- Just need switch replacement instructions/info).

Any info anyone can provide would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
Dave

[shorod]

Welcome to the forum!

I'd suggest starting by cleaning the wiper/turn signal stalk contacts. If you are comfortable with tools (which it sounds like you are) pop the end cap off of the stalk using a utility knife. You should now see a screw. Slowly remove the screw and slowly lift the spring-loaded contact out of the stalk. Using a cotton swab, clean and inspect the contacts inside the stalk as well as the spring finger contacts of the armature. If the contacts are worn through, time for a new stalk. If not, use some switch lubricant (or Vicks Vap-O-Rub) to keep the contacts lubricated and clean. Reassemble and see if your wiper problem has been remedied.

-Rod

[dave3266]

Thanks, Rod -
I appreciate the reply & info! Yes, I'm an old "gearhead", so don't have a problem tearing into something if I need to -- although I MUCH prefer working on the older, NON-COMPUTERIZED cars!!! **grin** Just finished replacing head gaskets on the Taurus last month - wasn't much fun!

I'll give your suggestion a try - will be much easier than trying to tear into the steering wheel, etc!! I've cleaned stalk contacts on older vehicles in the past, but wasn't sure if it would help/work on this car. Will let you know how it goes.

Thanks!
Dave

[Millermagic]

I second what Rob said. Here's some pictures
http://www.taurusclub.com/wiki/index...witch_Cleaning

[Johnny Mullet]

If you need to replace the multifunction switch, you will not need to remove the steering wheel. Simply remove the upper and lower covers around the column.

[dave3266]

Thanks very much, Johnny M & Millermagic - I really appreciate the info!
Gotta get this thing fixed for her - she's hit torrential rains both to & from work a couple of times this week! Most of the time the wipers work, but sometimes they momentarily quit.

Sure wish I would have found this forum before I Unnecessarily tore the heads off the thing!! A friend told me that he had read that leaking antifreeze problems were caused by blown head gasket -- WRONG!! At least I know that we've got a good, solid, clean engine (with new head gaskets!) - don't have to worry about that!

Thanks again, guys! I sure appreciate your help!

Dave