Wiper Switch Fix
#11
I am happy to report it fixed my issue too! Thanks!
My switch was much worse than the photo at the top, I could not even see any copper at all, it was just a green/black blob in there. I scraped away what I could and then used a wire brush wheel on a bench grinder to really shine it up - worked great. I used a little bulb grease to make sure the contacts on the white sliders moved up and down freely again, they were stiff and I was afraid if I removed them I would lose the spring and be stuck. I agree there is no need to remove the arm from the assembly, it has no bearing on the process. Much better than the $150-$330 they want for new ones!
My switch was much worse than the photo at the top, I could not even see any copper at all, it was just a green/black blob in there. I scraped away what I could and then used a wire brush wheel on a bench grinder to really shine it up - worked great. I used a little bulb grease to make sure the contacts on the white sliders moved up and down freely again, they were stiff and I was afraid if I removed them I would lose the spring and be stuck. I agree there is no need to remove the arm from the assembly, it has no bearing on the process. Much better than the $150-$330 they want for new ones!
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macutan (02-10-2022)
#13
#14
Same concept and removal on the other side of the column with the headlight control arm/lever. I took care of that one when turn signals would not work on one side. I think I may tackle this as preventative maintenance when I run out of other things to do.
Last edited by Rover_Hokie; 10-13-2012 at 12:46 PM.
#15
#16
The weather must be getting cool around the country... Oh yeah, It is mid October and the switch controls will become non-responsive if the grease has not been cleaned out?
If any of you go through and find there is a bigger issue and need a different switch... I have one that I bought prior to fixing mine
Paid $70...
Yours for $40.
If any of you go through and find there is a bigger issue and need a different switch... I have one that I bought prior to fixing mine
Paid $70...
Yours for $40.
#17
#18
See p.84-26 of Rave workshop manual. It reads:
"5. Remove 2 screws securing switch, carefully
raise edge of switch bracket to clear location
peg and remove switch."
What worked for me is I looked for two flathead screwdrivers with the thinnest blades I could find. Then I inserted each blade right where the screw holes were. Insert each one very carefully, just enough where you get a 1/16" clearance and leave the screwdriver there. Then pull out the wiper switch. If you did it right, the switch will come out very nicely.
As the author suggested, skip step #3 - with the same screwdrivers, remove the bottom of the switch, guiding the screwdrivers over the 4 indented plastic clips.
There will be two white plastic pieces - take a picture of them to remember how they were. Wipe off all the gunk you can, and spray the parts with degreaser. Blow dry.
Tip: Sand any metal that is rusty or has build-up. Do this for all contacts you can see.
Tip: Then apply a thin film of di-electric tune-up grease. You can get this from your auto supply store. Reassemble using steps backwards.
Tip: When putting back the plastic steering wheel shround, screw in the bottom first using the 3 screws. Make sure you clear the steering wheel column lift lever. Attach the rubber grommet for the ignition key next. There is a correct orientation for this. The snap on the top.
This is very therapeutic! My wipers worked perfectly after this fix!
Thank you very much
Al G
2003 D2 SE7 86K
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macutan (02-10-2022)
#20
Well Done
CANAMDiscovery, Thanks for taking the time to write this up. I was about to order a new wiper switch until I found this thread and it worked like a charm on my '03 Disco. Thanks for saving us the time and money on such an easy fix!
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macutan (02-10-2022)