Windscreen wiper fuse problem

[Sharpy]

Not been on here for a while, but have recently developed a windscreen wiper problem. I have a 1991 S3c, and noticed a couple of months ago that my intermittent wipe stopped working. About a month later the wiper self park function stopped working, then when driving in the rain weekend before last, the wipers completely failed. On checking the basics, I discovered the 15A fuse had blown. I replaced it, the wipers did a couple of sweeps then blew the fuse again. I tried this once more, only a slight wiper movement before the fuse blew. I assume the wiper motor is not burnt out as the wipers did move on my first try. My basic electrical knowledge would assume a short circuit somewhere ? I would be very grateful for any help,

Sharpy

[Barkychoc]

The wiper mechanism might be partly seized - its mini based I think just don't poke your fingers around any of the mechanism while its running.

You are probably going to have a bit of a job on but it I am guessing it needs lubricating, the hard part is getting at it, its behind the dash

Chris

[Sharpy]

Thanks for the speedy reply Chris. Is it possible to lubricate the mechanism without removing the dash?

Sharpy

[Ragtop]

Hi Dave,

The good Prof Heath gives a lot of useful information in the 'bible' second edition, including:

"The wiper motor is located under the glove box on the passenger side, right at the back. Access is not too difficult, providing you can move the wiring, ECU and fusebox out of the way." !!!

There's also a photo allegedly showing the motor in-situ, but I'm buttered if I can see it...! If you can remove the glove box, it might be more accessible still.

Good luck,
Graham

PS There are a few empty spaces in the S3 owners' list...

[steve j]

I reckon the clue is in the initial symptom, the park switch on my S2, was, mounted on the wiper motor and was playing up to the point that it packed in for good. The internal components are basically a few sets of contact arms and when they fail you get electrical problems. I removed mine and so far haven`t found a replacement. My wipers now have to be parked manually, maybe you have a short in the park switch causing a fuse to blow.
stevej

[phillpot]

Sounds like problem I had with my Chimaera, caused by corroded park switch. Fairly common problem with them because wiper motor is under the bonnet and park switch literally sits in a puddle when it rains or car gets a good wash!

Obviously its all inside the car on an S but maybe water ingress from wiper spindles or elsewhere?

[Sharpy]

Thanks for all the ideas as to the likely cause of my problems. It turned out that it was the park switch, that is clipped onto the wiper motor. Loads of replacement switches on ebay.. seems to be a mini part(£12 plus postage)... 5 mins to swap round and hey presto good as new,

thanks again for all your help,

Sharpy