Winsheild wiper fluid pump operation...

[Rat Rod Rusty]

73' FJ 40 F engine...today I reattached the wiring and plug to the wiper pump motor. And it still doesn't operate. I did verify power to the connector... question:

1. I've never had this hooked up so honestly I don't even know how to activate the washer motor? Do you turn the wiper knob to the right? Does the wipers have to be on/pulled out?

 

[JTeeg]

Yes turn the wiper knob to the right, not sure if the wiper has to be on.

 

[micdon]

on an 1980 you don't need to operate the wiper. Thnik it's the same on the older ones. Don't know for sure though. But if you checked there's power coming to the pump, it should operate. Open the pump and check the cable connections in there

 

[JTeeg]

Check a wiring diagram, but I believe the pump is always hot and the switch provides a ground when turned to actuate it.

 

[spotcruiser]

The switch grounds the circuit. You need a good ground at the switch body and the switch contact (outer grounding contact) needs to be clean enough that you actually get continuity to ground. Working the switch CW repeatedly will sometimes clean the contact enough to work.

 

[Curt]

Take the washer bottle off remove the pump and make sure the motor actually works. I opened mine and it was filled with rust. Removed rust and it works fine now.

Edit. Rebuilding the switch is also a good idea

 

[bj40green]

Works only with the key in the "acc" or "on" position. Wipers don't have to work. Just turn the wiper knob to the right. Washer switch is famous for bad contacts.
Blue wire on washer motor is live when key is in the acc or on position.
Blue/Yellow wire goes to switch. Switch goes to ground.

Rudi

 

[Rat Rod Rusty]

Thanks everyone...looks like a a few more places to troubleshoot but hopefully I'll have things working soon.

 

[Racer65]

Take the washer bottle off remove the pump and make sure the motor actually works. I opened mine and it was filled with rust. Removed rust and it works fine now.
Edit. Rebuilding the switch is also a good idea

+2. My pump was rusted inside and out. If you still have the original pump, I'm pretty sure it's the same way.

 

[Rat Rod Rusty]

Copy...thanks I'll see what I can do tomorrow

 

[Cruiser804]

Just went through this on my 79. These motors are very similar to the carbon brushed motors used in RC hobbies. Easy to take apart, clean and refurbish. Tons of videos on YouTube.

Mostly you need to resurface the commutator. Stick the armature in a drill and take a small file to it until you see shiny copper. Surprisingly easy.

 

[73FJ40]

When mine didn't work, I took the pump off the reservoir and found that the impeller was stuck to the rubber seal. Some water and a little twist, and it fired right up.