1998 DODGE RAM 1500 vin

The previous disengagement conditions are pro-
grammed for added safety.
Once the speed control has been disengaged,
depressing the ACCEL switch restores the vehicle to
the target speed that was stored in the PCM's RAM
(ECM for diesel).
NOTE: Depressing the OFF switch will erase the set
speed stored in the PCM's/ECM's RAM.
If, while the speed control is engaged, the driver
wishes to increase vehicle speed, the PCM(ECM for
diesel)is programmed for an acceleration feature.
With the ACCEL switch held closed, the vehicle
accelerates slowly to the desired speed. The new tar-
get speed is stored in the PCM's/ECM's RAM when
the ACCEL switch is released. The PCM/ECM also
has a9tap-up9feature in which vehicle speed
increases at a rate of approximately 2 mph for each
momentary switch activation of the ACCEL switch.
The PCM/ECM also provides a means to decelerate
without disengaging speed control. To decelerate from
an existing recorded target speed, depress and hold
the COAST switch until the desired speed is reached.
Then release the switch. The ON, OFF switch oper-
ates two components: the PCM's/ECM's ON, OFF
input, and the battery voltage to the brake switch.
REMOVAL
Depending on engine control computer (JTEC
having a 3±plug connector or 5.7L V-8 NGC hav-
ing a 4±plug connector), 2 types of switches are
used. Both types of switches are internally and
externally different. The switches used with the
NGC system have attached pigtail leads (Fig. 9).
The switch used with the JTEC system does not
have an attached pigtail lead.
(1) Remove switch mounting screw (Fig. 8). or
(Fig. 9)
(2) Pull switch from steering wheel.
(3) Unplug electrical connector from switch (Fig.
8), or, switch pigtail wire harness from steering
wheel wire harness (Fig. 9) and remove switch.
INSTALLATION
(1) Plug electrical connector into switch (Fig. 8), or
connect pigtail wire harness to steering wheel wire
harness (Fig. 9). Be sure wires are not pinched.
(2) Position switch to steering wheel.
(3) Install switch mounting screw and tighten.
Refer to torque specifications.
Fig. 8 SPEED CONTROL SWITCHES (EXCEPT 5.7L
V-8 ENGINE)
1 - ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS
2 - MOUNTING SCREWS
3 - RIGHT SWITCH
4 - LEFT SWITCH
Fig. 9 SPEED CONTROL SWITCHES (WITH 5.7L V-8
ENGINE)
1 - MOUNTING SCREWS
2 - RIGHT SWITCH
3 - LEFT SWITCH
4 - PIGTAIL LEADS
8P - 8 SPEED CONTROLDR
SWITCH (Continued)

VACUUM RESERVOIR
DESCRIPTION
The vacuum reservoir is a plastic storage tank con-
nected to an engine vacuum source by vacuum lines.
A vacuum reservoir is not used with diesel engines or
the 5.7L gas powered engine.
OPERATION
The vacuum reservoir is used to supply the vac-
uum needed to maintain proper speed control opera-
tion when engine vacuum drops, such as in climbing
a grade while driving. A one-way check valve is used
in the vacuum line between the reservoir and the
vacuum source. This check valve is used to trap
engine vacuum in the reservoir. On certain vehicle
applications, this reservoir is shared with the heat-
ing/air-conditioning system. The vacuum reservoir
cannot be repaired and must be replaced if faulty.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - VACUUM
RESERVOIR
(1) Disconnect vacuum hose at speed control servo
and install a vacuum gauge into the disconnected
hose.
(2) Start engine and observe gauge at idle. Vac-
uum gauge should read at least ten inches of mer-
cury.
(3) If vacuum is less than ten inches of mercury,
determine source of leak. Check vacuum line to
engine for leaks. Also check actual engine intake
manifold vacuum. If manifold vacuum does not meet
this requirement, check for poor engine performance
and repair as necessary.
(4) If vacuum line to engine is not leaking, check
for leak at vacuum reservoir. To locate and gain
access to reservoir, refer to Vacuum Reservoir Remov-
al/Installation in this group. Disconnect vacuum line
at reservoir and connect a hand-operated vacuum
pump to reservoir fitting. Apply vacuum. Reservoir
vacuum should not bleed off. If vacuum is being lost,
replace reservoir.
(5) Verify operation of one-way check valve and
check it for leaks.Certain models may be
equipped with 2 check-valves.
(a) Locate one-way check valve. The valve is
located in vacuum line between vacuum reservoir
and engine vacuum source. Disconnect vacuum
hoses (lines) at each end of valve.(b) Connect a hand-operated vacuum pump to
reservoir end of check valve. Apply vacuum. Vac-
uum should not bleed off. If vacuum is being lost,
replace one-way check valve.
(c) Connect a hand-operated vacuum pump to
vacuum source end of check valve. Apply vacuum.
Vacuum should flow through valve. If vacuum is
not flowing, replace one-way check valve. Seal the
fitting at opposite end of valve with a finger and
apply vacuum. If vacuum will not hold, diaphragm
within check valve has ruptured. Replace valve.
REMOVAL
The vacuum reservoir is located in the engine com-
partment under the fresh air cowl grill panel (Fig.
10).
(1) Remove wiper blades and arms. Refer to Wiper
Arm Removal / Installation in the Wipers / Washers
section.
(2) Remove fresh air cowl grill. Refer to Cowl Grill
Removal / Installation.
(3) Disconnect vacuum line at reservoir (Fig. 11).
(4) Remove 2 reservoir mounting nuts (Fig. 11).
(5) Remove reservoir from cowl.
Fig. 10 VACUUM RESERVOIR LOCATION
1 - COWL GRILL
2 - WIPER ARMS / BLADES
3 - VACUUM RESERVOIR
DRSPEED CONTROL 8P - 9

After the vehicle is locked and the last door is
closed, the VTSS indicator in the instrument cluster
will flash quickly for 16 seconds, indicating that the
arming is in process. After 16 seconds, the LED will
continue to flash at a slower rate indicating that the
system is armed.
VTSS disarming occurs upon normal vehicle entry
by unlocking either door via the key cylinder or RKE
transmitter, or by starting the vehicle with a valid
Sentry Key. This disarming will also halt the alarm
once it has been activated.
A tamper alert exists to notify the driver that the
system has been activated. This alert consists of 3
horn pulses and the security telltale flashing for 30
seconds when the vehicle is disarmed. The tamper
alert will not occur if disarmed while alarming.
The VTSS will not arm by mechanically locking the
vehicle doors. This will manually override the sys-
tem.
OPERATION - SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER
SYSTEM (SKIS)
The SKIS includes two valid Sentry Key transpon-
ders from the factory. These two Sentry Keys can be
used to program additional non-coded blank Sentry
Keys. These blank keys can be cut to match a valid
ignition key, but the engine will not start unless the
key transponder is also programmed to the vehicle.
The SKIS will recognize no more than eight valid
Sentry Key transponders at any one time.
The SKIS performs a self-test each time the igni-
tion switch is turned to the ON position, and will
store Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) if a system
malfunction is detected. The SKIS can be diagnosed,
and any stored DTC can be retrieved using a
DRBIIItscan tool as described in the proper Power-
train Diagnostic Procedures manual.
OPERATION ± SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER
MODULE (SKIM)
The SKIM transmits and receives RF signals
through a tuned antenna enclosed within a molded
plastic ring formation that is integral to the SKIM
housing. When the SKIM is properly installed on the
steering column, the antenna ring is oriented around
the circumference of the ignition lock cylinder hous-
ing. This antenna ring must be located within eight
millimeters (0.31 inches) of the Sentry Key in order
to ensure proper RF communication between the
SKIM and the Sentry Key transponder.
For added system security, each SKIM is pro-
grammed with a unique ªSecret Keyº code and a
security code. The SKIM keeps the ªSecret Keyº code
in memory. The SKIM also sends the ªSecret Keyº
code to each of the programmed Sentry Key tran-
sponders. The security code is used by the assemblyplant to access the SKIS for initialization, or by the
dealer technician to access the system for service.
The SKIM also stores in its memory the Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN), which it learns through
a PCI bus message from the PCM during initializa-
tion.
The SKIM and the PCM both use software that
includes a rolling code algorithm strategy, which
helps to reduce the possibility of unauthorized SKIS
disarming. The rolling code algorithm ensures secu-
rity by preventing an override of the SKIS through
the unauthorized substitution of the SKIM or the
PCM. However, the use of this strategy also means
that replacement of either the SKIM or the PCM
units will require a system initialization procedure to
restore system operation.
When the ignition switch is turned to the ON or
START positions, the SKIM transmits an RF signal
to excite the Sentry Key transponder. The SKIM then
listens for a return RF signal from the transponder
of the Sentry Key that is inserted in the ignition lock
cylinder. If the SKIM receives an RF signal with
valid ªSecret Keyº and transponder identification
codes, the SKIM sends a ªvalid keyº message to the
PCM over the PCI bus. If the SKIM receives an
invalid RF signal or no response, it sends ªinvalid
keyº messages to the PCM. The PCM will enable or
disable engine operation based upon the status of the
SKIM messages.
The SKIM also sends messages to the Instrument
Cluster which controls the VTSS indicator. The
SKIM sends messages to the Instrument Cluster to
turn the indicator on for about three seconds when
the ignition switch is turned to the ON position as a
ªbulbº test. After completion of the ªbulbº test, the
SKIM sends bus messages to keep the indicator off
for a duration of about one second. Then the SKIM
sends messages to turn the indicator on or off based
upon the results of the SKIS self-tests. If the VTSS
indicator comes on and stays on after the ªbulb testº,
it indicates that the SKIM has detected a system
malfunction and/or that the SKIS has become inoper-
ative.
If the SKIM detects an invalid key when the igni-
tion switch is turned to the ON position, it sends
messages to flash the VTSS indicator. The SKIM can
also send messages to flash the indicator to serve as
an indication to the customer that the SKIS has been
placed in its ªCustomer Learnº programming mode.
See Sentry Key Immobilizer System Transponder
Programming in this section for more information on
the ªCustomer Learnº programming mode.
For diagnosis or initialization of the SKIM and the
PCM, a DRBIIItscan tool and the proper Powertrain
Diagnostic Procedures manual are required. The
8Q - 2 VEHICLE THEFT SECURITYDR
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)

SKIM cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged,
the unit must be replaced.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY SYSTEM
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, REFER TO RESTRAINT SYSTEMS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
NOTE: The most reliable, efficient, and accurate
means to diagnose the Vehicle Theft Security Sys-
tem (VTSS) and Sentry Key Immobilizer System
(SKIS) involves the use of a DRBlllTscan tool and
the proper Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures man-
ual.
The Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS), Sentry
Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) and the Programma-
ble Communication Interface (PCI) bus network
should be diagnosed using a DRBIIItscan tool. The
DRBIIItwill allow confirmation that the PCI bus is
functional, that the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module
(SKIM) is placing the proper messages on the PCI
bus, and that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
and the Instrument Cluster are receiving the PCI
bus messages. Refer to the proper Powertrain or
Body Diagnostic Procedures manual.
Visually inspect the related wiring harness connec-
tors. Look for broken, bent, pushed out or corroded
terminals. If any of the conditions are present, repair
as necessary. Refer to Wiring Diagrams for complete
circuit descriptions and diagrams. Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/SEN-
TRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE - REMOVAL for
SKIM replacement.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
CONFIGURING A NEW MODULE / SWITCH
OPERATING MODES
To configure a new module or to switch operating
modes, a DRBIIItscan tool must be used.
(1) Hook up the DRBIIItscan tool to the Data
Link Connector (DLC).
(2) With the key in the ignition, turn the key to
the RUN position.(3) After the DRBIIItscan tool initialization, per-
form the following:
(a) Select ªTheft Alarm.º
(b) Select ªVTSS.º
(c) Select ªMiscellaneous.º
(4) Once in the ªMiscellaneousº screen:
(a) If you wish to configure a new module, select
ªConfigure Module.º
(b) If you wish to put the module into customer
usage mode, select ªEnable VTSS.º
(c) If you wish to put the module into dealer lot
mode, select ªDealer Lot.º
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
INITIALIZATION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) initial-
ization should be performed following a Sentry Key
Immobilizer Module (SKIM) replacement.
It can be summarized by the following:
(1) Obtain the vehicles unique PIN number
assigned to it's original SKIM from the vehicle
owner, the vehicle's invoice or from Chrysler's Cus-
tomer Center.
(2) With the DRBIIItscan tool, select ªTheft
Alarm,º ªSKIM,º Miscellaneous.º Select ªSKIM Mod-
ule Replacedº function and the DRBIIItwill prompt
you through the following steps.
(3) Enter secured access mode using the unique
four digit PIN number.
(4) Program the vehicle's VIN number into the
SKIM's memory.
(5) Program the country code into the SKIM's
memory (U.S.).
(6) Transfer the vehicle's unique Secret Key data
from the PCM. This process will require the SKIM to
be insecured access mode. The PIN number must
be entered into the DRBIIItbefore the SKIM will
entersecured access mode. Oncesecured access
modeis active, the SKIM will remain in that mode
for 60 seconds.
(7) Program all customer keys into the SKIM's
memory. This required that the SKIM be insecured
access modeThe SKIM will immediately exit
secured access modeafter each key is pro-
grammed.
NOTE: If a PCM is replaced, the unique ªSecret
Keyº data must be transferred from the SKIM to the
PCM. This procedure requires the SKIM to be
placed in SECURED ACCESS MODE using the four
digit PIN code.
DRVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY 8Q - 3
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)

is released before parking the wiper blades near the
base of the windshield. If the control knob is held in
the depressed Wash position for more than about
thirty seconds, washer system operation will be sus-
pended until the control knob is released for about
two seconds then cycled back to the Wash position.
OPERATION
The wiper and washer system is designed to pro-
vide the vehicle operator with a convenient, safe, and
reliable means of maintaining visibility through the
windshield glass. The various components of this sys-
tem are designed to convert electrical energy pro-
duced by the vehicle electrical system into the
mechanical action of the wiper blades to wipe the
outside surface of the glass, as well as into the
hydraulic action of the washer system to apply
washer fluid stored in an on-board reservoir to the
area of the glass to be wiped. When combined, these
components provide the means to effectively main-
tain clear visibility for the vehicle operator by remov-
ing excess accumulations of rain, snow, bugs, mud, or
other minor debris from the outside windshield glass
surface that might be encountered while driving the
vehicle under numerous types of inclement operating
conditions.
The vehicle operator initiates all wiper and washer
system functions with the control knob on the end of
the control stalk of the multi-function switch that
extends from the left side of the steering column, just
below the steering wheel. Rotating the control knob
on the end of the control stalk, selects the Off, Delay,
Low, or High wiper system operating modes. In the
Delay mode, the control knob also allows the vehicle
operator to select from one of five intermittent wipe
Delay intervals. Depressing the control knob towards
the steering column actuates the momentary washer
system switch, which selects the Wash, Wipe-After-
Wash, and Pulse Wipe Modes depending upon when
and how long the switch is held closed. The multi-
function switch provides hard wired resistor multi-
plexed inputs to the instrument cluster for all of the
wiper and washer system functions. The instrument
cluster then sends electronic messages to the Front
Control Module (FCM) over the Programmable Com-
munications Interface (PCI) data bus requesting the
appropriate wiper and washer system operating
modes.
Wiper and washer system operation are completely
controlled by the instrument cluster and FCM logic
circuits, and that logic will only allow these systems
to operate when the ignition switch is in the Acces-
sory or On positions. Battery current is directed from
a B(+) fuse in the Integrated Power Module (IPM) to
the wiper on/off relay and the wiper high/low relay in
the IPM through a fused B(+) circuit. The FCM useslow side drivers to control wiper system operation by
energizing or de-energizing the wiper high/low and
wiper on/off relays. The FCM uses a high side driver
to control the operation of the washer pump motor
unit. The multi-function switch circuitry receives a
clean ground output from the instrument cluster on a
multi-function switch return circuit, then provides
resistor multiplexed inputs to the instrument cluster
on an intermittent wipe mux circuit to indicate the
selected wiper system mode and on a wash/beam
select mux circuit to indicate the selected washer sys-
tem mode.
The hard wired circuits and components of the
wiper and washer system may be diagnosed and
tested using conventional diagnostic tools and proce-
dures. However, conventional diagnostic methods
may not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the
instrument cluster, the FCM, or the electronic mes-
sage inputs to or outputs from the instrument cluster
or FCM that control the wiper and washer system
operating modes. The most reliable, efficient, and
accurate means to diagnose the instrument cluster or
the FCM inputs and outputs related to the various
wiper and washer system operating modes requires
the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appro-
priate diagnostic information.
OPERATING MODES
Following are paragraphs that briefly describe the
operation of each of the wiper and washer system
operating modes.
CONTINUOUS WIPE MODE
When the Low position of the control knob on the
control stalk of the multi-function switch is selected
the instrument cluster sends an electronic wiper
switch low message to the FCM, then the FCM ener-
gizes the wiper on/off relay. This directs battery cur-
rent through the normally open contacts of the
energized wiper on/off relay and the normally closed
contacts of the de-energized wiper high/low relay to
the low speed brush of the wiper motor, causing the
wipers to cycle at low speed.
When the High position of the control knob is
selected the instrument cluster sends an electronic
wiper switch high message to the FCM, then the
FCM energizes both the wiper on/off relay and the
wiper high/low relay. This directs battery current
through the normally open contacts of the energized
wiper on/off relay and the normally open contacts of
the energized wiper high/low relay to the high speed
brush of the wiper motor, causing the wipers to cycle
at high speed.
When the Off position of the multi-function switch
control knob is selected, the instrument cluster sends
an electronic wiper switch off message to the FCM. If
8R - 4 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

interval at which to de-energize the wiper on/off
relay to complete the wipe-after-wash mode cycle.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIPER &
WASHER SYSTEM
If the wiper motor operates, but the wipers do not
move on the windshield, replace the faulty wiper
module. If the washer pump/motor operates, but no
washer fluid is dispensed on the glass; or, if the wip-
ers operate, but chatter, lift, or do not clear the glass,
clean and inspect the wiper and washer system com-
ponents as required. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
WIPERS/WASHERS - CLEANING) and (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS - INSPECTION).
For diagnosis and testing of the multi-function
switch (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHT-
ING - EXTERIOR/MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). Refer to the appropri-
ate wiring information. The wiring information
includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector
repair procedures, details of wire harness routing
and retention, connector pin-out information and
location views for the various wire harness connec-
tors, splices and grounds.
The hard wired circuits and components of the
wiper and washer system may be diagnosed and
tested using conventional diagnostic tools and proce-
dures. However, conventional diagnostic methods
may not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the
instrument cluster, the Front Control Module (FCM),
or the electronic message inputs to or outputs from
the instrument cluster and the FCM that control the
various wiper and washer system operating modes.
The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to
diagnose the instrument cluster, the FCM, or the
electronic message inputs and outputs related to the
various wiper and washer system operating modes
requires the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
CLEANING - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM
WIPER SYSTEM
The squeegees of wiper blades exposed to the ele-
ments for a long time tend to lose their wiping effec-
tiveness. Periodic cleaning of the squeegees is
suggested to remove any deposits of salt or road film.
The wiper blades, arms, and windshield glass should
only be cleaned using a sponge or soft cloth and
windshield washer fluid, a mild detergent, or a non-
abrasive cleaner. If the wiper blades continue to
leave streaks, smears, hazing, or beading on the
glass after thorough cleaning of the squeegees and
the glass, the entire wiper blade assembly must be
replaced.
CAUTION: Protect the rubber squeegees of the
wiper blades from any petroleum-based cleaners,
solvents, or contaminants. These products can rap-
idly deteriorate the rubber squeegees.
WASHER SYSTEM
If the washer system is contaminated with foreign
material, drain the washer reservoir by removing the
washer pump/motor from the reservoir. Clean foreign
material from the inside of the washer pump/motor
inlet filter screen and the washer reservoir using
clean washer fluid, a mild detergent, or a non-abra-
sive cleaner. Flush foreign material from the washer
system plumbing by first disconnecting the washer
hoses from the washer nozzles, then running the
washer pump/motor to run clean washer fluid or
water through the system. Plugged or restricted
washer nozzles should be carefully back-flushed
using compressed air. If the washer nozzle obstruc-
tion cannot be cleared, replace the washer nozzle.
CAUTION: Never introduce petroleum-based clean-
ers, solvents, or contaminants into the washer sys-
tem. These products can rapidly deteriorate the
rubber seals and hoses of the washer system, as
well as the rubber squeegees of the wiper blades.
CAUTION: Never use compressed air to flush the
washer system plumbing. Compressed air pres-
sures are too great for the washer system plumbing
components and will result in further system dam-
age. Never use sharp instruments to clear a
plugged washer nozzle or damage to the nozzle ori-
fice and improper nozzle spray patterns will result.
8R - 6 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

INSPECTION - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM
WIPER SYSTEM
The wiper blades and wiper arms should be
inspected periodically, not just when wiper perfor-
mance problems are experienced. This inspection
should include the following points:
(1) Inspect the wiper arms for any indications of
damage, or contamination. If the wiper arms are con-
taminated with any foreign material, clean them as
required. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/
WASHERS - CLEANING). If a wiper arm is damaged
or corrosion is evident, replace the wiper arm with a
new unit. Do not attempt to repair a wiper arm that
is damaged or corroded.
(2) Carefully lift the wiper blade off of the glass.
Note the action of the wiper arm hinge. The wiper
arm should pivot freely at the hinge, but with no lat-
eral looseness evident. If there is any binding evident
in the wiper arm hinge, or there is evident lateral
play in the wiper arm hinge, replace the wiper arm.
CAUTION: Do not allow the wiper arm to spring
back against the glass without the wiper blade in
place or the glass may be damaged.
(3) Once proper hinge action of the wiper arm is
confirmed, check the hinge for proper spring tension.
Remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm. Either
place a small postal scale between the blade end of
the wiper arm and the glass, or carefully lift the
blade end of the arm away from the glass using a
small fish scale. Compare the scale readings between
the right and left wiper arms. Replace a wiper arm if
it has comparatively lower spring tension, as evi-
denced by a lower scale reading.
(4) Inspect the wiper blades and squeegees for any
indications of damage, contamination, or rubber dete-
rioration (Fig. 2). If the wiper blades or squeegees
are contaminated with any foreign material, clean
them and the glass as required. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS - CLEANING). After
cleaning the wiper blade and the glass, if the wiper
blade still fails to clear the glass without smearing,
streaking, chattering, hazing, or beading, replace the
wiper blade. Also, if a wiper blade is damaged or the
squeegee rubber is damaged or deteriorated, replace
the wiper blade with a new unit. Do not attempt to
repair a wiper blade that is damaged.
WASHER SYSTEM
The washer system components should be
inspected periodically, not just when washer perfor-
mance problems are experienced. This inspection
should include the following points:(1) Check for ice or other foreign material in the
washer reservoir. If contaminated, clean and flush
the washer system. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIP-
ERS/WASHERS - CLEANING).
(2) Inspect the washer plumbing for pinched, leak-
ing, deteriorated, or incorrectly routed hoses and
damaged or disconnected hose fittings. Replace dam-
aged or deteriorated hoses and hose fittings. Leaking
washer hoses can sometimes be repaired by cutting
the hose at the leak and splicing it back together
using an in-line connector fitting. Similarly, sections
of deteriorated hose can be cut out and replaced by
splicing in new sections of hose using in-line connec-
tor fittings. Whenever routing a washer hose or a
wire harness containing a washer hose, it must be
routed away from hot, sharp, or moving parts. Also,
sharp bends that might pinch the washer hose must
be avoided.CHECK VALVE
DESCRIPTION
A single washer system check valve is standard
equipment on this model, and is installed in the
Fig. 2 Wiper Blade Inspection
1 - WORN OR UNEVEN EDGES
2 - ROAD FILM OR FOREIGN MATERIAL DEPOSITS
3 - HARD, BRITTLE, OR CRACKED
4 - DEFORMED OR FATIGUED
5 - SPLIT
6 - DAMAGED SUPPORT COMPONENTS
DRWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 7
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

(FCM) on a sensor return circuit and the washer
fluid switch sense input to the FCM. When the
switch closes, the FCM senses the ground on the
washer fluid switch sense circuit. The FCM is pro-
grammed to respond to this input by sending an elec-
tronic washer fluid indicator lamp-on message to the
instrument cluster over the Programmable Commu-
nications Interface (PCI) data bus. The instrument
cluster responds to this message by illuminating the
washer fluid indicator and by sounding an audible
chime tone warning.
The washer fluid level switch may be diagnosed
and tested using conventional diagnostic tools and
procedures. However, conventional diagnostic meth-
ods may not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the
instrument cluster, the FCM, or the electronic mes-
sage inputs to or outputs from the instrument cluster
and the FCM that control the operation of the
washer fluid visual and/or audible indicators. The
most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to diag-
nose the washer fluid level indicator, the instrument
cluster, the FCM, or the electronic message inputs
and outputs related to the washer fluid indicator
requires the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
REMOVAL
The washer fluid level switch can be removed from
the washer reservoir without removing the reservoir
from the vehicle.
(1) Unlatch and open the hood.
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(3) Disconnect the washer hose from the barbed
outlet nipple of the washer pump/motor unit and
allow the washer fluid to drain into a clean container
for reuse.
(4) Disconnect the right (except diesel engine) or
left (diesel engine only) headlamp and dash wire har-
ness connector for the washer fluid level switch from
the switch connector receptacle (Fig. 7) or (Fig. 8).
NOTE: The pivoting float of the washer fluid level
switch must be in a horizontal position within the
reservoir in order to be removed. With the reservoir
empty and in an upright position, the pivoting float
will orient itself to the horizontal position when the
switch connector receptacle is pointed straight
upwards.
(5) Using a trim stick or another suitable wide
flat-bladed tool, gently pry the barbed nipple of the
washer fluid level switch out of the rubber grommet
seal on the reservoir sump. Care must be taken not
to damage the reservoir.
(6) Remove the washer fluid level switch from the
washer reservoir.(7) Remove the rubber grommet seal from the
washer fluid level switch mounting hole in the
washer reservoir and discard.
Fig. 7 Washer Fluid Level Switch Remove/Install -
Except Diesel Engine
1 - WASHER HOSE
2 - WASHER RESERVOIR
3 - WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
4 - WIRE HARNESS
5 - WASHER PUMP/MOTOR
Fig. 8 Washer Fluid Level Switch Remove/Install -
Diesel Engine
1 - WIRE HARNESS
2 - WASHER RESERVOIR
3 - WASHER PUMP/MOTOR
4 - WASHER HOSE
5 - WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
8R - 10 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH (Continued)