2001 DODGE RAM engine

²If the actual speed is not within 20 mph of the
set speedThe previous disengagement conditions are
programmed 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 ECM's RAM.
NOTE: Depressing the OFF switch will erase the set
speed stored in the ECM's RAM.
If, while the speed control is engaged, the driver
wishes to increase vehicle speed, the ECM is pro-
grammed for an acceleration feature. With the
ACCEL switch held closed, the vehicle accelerates
slowly to the desired speed. The new target speed is
stored in the ECM's RAM when the ACCEL switch is
released. The ECM also has a9tap-up9feature in
which vehicle speed increases at a rate of approxi-
mately 2 mph for each momentary switch activation
of the ACCEL switch.
The ECM also provides a means to decelerate with-
out 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 ECM's ON, OFF input, and
the battery voltage to the brake switch, which powers
the speed control servo.
REMOVAL
WARNING: BEFORE BEGINNING ANY AIRBAG SYS-
TEM COMPONENT REMOVAL OR INSTALLATION,
REMOVE AND ISOLATE THE NEGATIVE (-)
CABLE(S) FROM THE BATTERY. THIS IS THE ONLY
SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM.
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR SYSTEM CAPACI-
TOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE FURTHER SYSTEM
SERVICE. FAILURE TO DO THIS COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSI-
BLE INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate negative battery
cable(s).
(2) Remove airbag module. Refer to 8, Restraint
Systems for procedures.
(3) Remove switch-to-steering wheel mounting
screws (Fig. 20).
(4) Remove switch.
(5) Remove electrical connector at switch.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install electrical connector to switch.
(2) Install switch and mounting screws.
(3) Tighten screws to 3 N´m (26 in. lbs. +/± 2 in.
lbs.) torque.(4) Install airbag module. Refer to 8, Restraint
Systems for procedures.
(5) Connect negative battery cable(s).
VACUUM RESERVOIR
DESCRIPTION
Gasoline Powered Engines :A vacuum reservoir
is used to supply the vacuum needed to maintain
proper speed control operation 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 res-
ervoir. On certain vehicle applications, this reservoir
is shared with the heating/air-conditioning system.
The vacuum reservoir cannot be repaired and must
be replaced if faulty.
Diesel Powered Engines With Auto. Trans. :A
vacuum reservoir is not used if equipped with a die-
sel powered engine. Instead, an engine driven pump
(vacuum pump) is used to supply vacuum for speed
control operation. This vacuum pump is used with
the diesel engine only if it is equipped with an auto-
matic transmission. Refer to Vacuum Pump in 9,
Engines for information.
REMOVAL
The vacuum reservoir is located under the plastic
cowel plenum cover at lower base of windshield. The
vacuum reservoir is not used if equipped with a die-
sel engine.
Fig. 20 Speed Control Switches
1 - MOUNTING SCREWS (2)
2 - SPEED CONTROL SWITCHES (2)
BR/BESPEED CONTROL 8P - 13
SWITCH (Continued)

(1) Disconnect and isolate battery negative cable.
(2) Remove both windshield wiper arm/blade
assemblies. Refer to 8, Wiper and Washer Systems.
(3) Remove rubber weather-strip at front edge of
cowel grill (Fig. 21).
(4) Release cowel grill plastic anchor screws (Fig.
22).
(5) Lift cowel plenum cover/grille panel from vehi-
cle far enough to access vacuum reservoir.
(6) Disconnect vacuum supply line from vacuum
reservoir (Fig. 23).
(7) Remove 2 vacuum reservoir mounting screws.
(8) Remove vacuum reservoir from vehicle.
INSTALLATION
The vacuum reservoir is located under the plastic
cowel plenum cover at lower base of windshield. The
vacuum reservoir is not used if equipped with a die-
sel engine.
(1) Install vacuum reservoir and two mounting
screws. Tighten screws to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.) torque.
(2) Connect vacuum supply hose to vacuum reser-
voir.
(3) Position cowel plenum cover/grille panel to
vehicle.
(4) Install and tighten cowel cover fasteners to
vehicle body.
(5) Install rubber weather-strip at front edge of
cowel grill.
(6) Install windshield wiper arms. Refer to 8,
Wiper and Washer Systems.
(7) Connect negative battery to cable.
Fig. 21 Cowel Grille Panel Weather-strip
1 - COWL GRILLE
2 - WEATHERSTRIP
Fig. 22 Plastic Anchor Screws Remove/Install
1 - PLASTIC SCREW ANCHOR
2 - COWL GRILLE
Fig. 23 Vacuum Reservoir Remove/Install
1 - COWL PLENUM
2 - VACUUM RESERVOIR
8P - 14 SPEED CONTROLBR/BE
VACUUM RESERVOIR (Continued)

VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
DESCRIPTION............................1
OPERATION.............................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING..................3
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY SYSTEM........3VTSS INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION............................3
OPERATION.............................3
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING..................3
VTSS INDICATOR.......................3
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
DESCRIPTION
The Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS) is an
available factory-installed option on this model when
it is also equipped with the high-line or premium
Central Timer Module (CTM). The VTSS is designed
to provide perimeter protection against unauthorized
use or tampering by monitoring the vehicle doors and
the ignition system. If unauthorized vehicle use or
tampering is detected, the system responds by puls-
ing the horn, flashing the headlamps, and preventing
the engine from operating.
The VTSS includes the following major compo-
nents, which are described in further detail else-
where in this service manual:
²Central Timer Module- The high-line or pre-
mium Central Timer Module (CTM) is located under
the driver side end of the instrument panel, inboard
of the instrument panel steering column opening.
The high-line or premium CTM contains a micropro-
cessor and software that allow it to provide many
electronic functions and features not available with
base version of the CTM, including the VTSS. The
CTM provides all of the proper VTSS features and
outputs based upon the monitored inputs. The CTM
circuitry monitors hard wired switch inputs, as well
as message inputs received from other vehicle elec-
tronic modules over the Chrysler Collision Detection
(CCD) data bus network. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/BODY CON-
TROL/CENTRAL TIMER MODULE -
DESCRIPTION).
²Door Ajar Switch- A door ajar switch is
located on the hinge pillar of each front door in the
vehicle. These switches provide an input to the VTSS
indicating whether the door is opened or closed.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHTING -
INTERIOR/DOOR AJAR SWITCH - DESCRIPTION).
²Door Cylinder Lock Switch- A door cylinder
lock switch is located on the back of each front door
lock cylinder. This switch provides an input to theVTSS indicating whether the system should remain
armed or be disarmed. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
POWER LOCKS/DOOR CYLINDER LOCK SWITCH
- DESCRIPTION).
²Horn Relay- The horn relay is located in the
Power Distribution Center (PDC) in the engine com-
partment near the battery. The horn relay is nor-
mally activated by the horn switch to control the
sounding of the vehicle horn or horns. However, it
can also be activated by an output of the Central
Timer Module (CTM) to provide an audible indication
that unauthorized vehicle use or tampering has been
detected. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/HORN/HORN
RELAY - DESCRIPTION).
²Headlamp Relay- The headlamp relay (also
known as the security relay) is located in the Power
Distribution Center (PDC) in the engine compart-
ment near the battery. The headlamp relay is nor-
mally activated by the Central Timer Module (CTM)
based upon inputs from the Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) panic mode feature. However, it can also be
activated by an output of the CTM to flash the head-
lamp low beams to provide a highly visible indication
that unauthorized vehicle use or tampering has been
detected. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHT-
ING - EXTERIOR/HEADLAMP RELAY - DESCRIP-
TION).
²VTSS Indicator- A red Light Emitting Diode
(LED) located on the lower surface of the overhead
console near the windshield is illuminated by an out-
put of the Central Timer Module (CTM) to indicate
the status of the VTSS. This LED is integral to the
electronic circuit board for the Compass Mini-Trip
Computer (CMTC). (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
OVERHEAD CONSOLE/COMPASS/MINI-TRIP
COMPUTER - DESCRIPTION).
The engine no-run feature of the VTSS relies upon
communication between the high-line or premium
CTM and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) over
the Chrysler Collision Detection (CCD) data bus net-
work.
Hard wired circuitry connects many of the VTSS
components to each other through the electrical sys-
BR/BEVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY 8Q - 1

tem of the vehicle. These hard wired circuits are
integral to several wire harnesses, which are routed
throughout the vehicle and retained by many differ-
ent methods. These circuits may be connected to each
other, to the vehicle electrical system and to the
VTSS components through the use of a combination
of soldered splices, splice block connectors, and many
different types of wire harness terminal connectors
and insulators. Refer to the appropriate wiring infor-
mation. The wiring information includes wiring dia-
grams, proper wire and connector repair procedures,
further details on wire harness routing and reten-
tion, as well as pin-out and location views for the
various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.
OPERATION
A Central Timer Module (CTM) is used on this
model to control and integrate many of the electronic
functions and features included in the Vehicle Theft
Security System (VTSS). In the VTSS, the CTM
receives inputs indicating the status of the door ajar
switches, the door cylinder lock switch, and the igni-
tion switch. The programming in the CTM allows it
to process the information from all of these inputs
and send control outputs to energize or de-energize
the horn relay, the headlamp relay, and the VTSS
indicator. The control of these inputs and outputs are
what constitute all of the features of the VTSS. Fol-
lowing is information on the operation of each of the
VTSS features. Refer to the owner's manual in the
vehicle glove box for more information on the fea-
tures, use and operation of the VTSS.
ENABLING
The high-line or premium version of the CTM must
have the VTSS function electronically enabled in
order for the VTSS to perform as designed. The logic
in the CTM keeps its VTSS function dormant until it
is enabled using a DRBIIIž scan tool. The VTSS
function of the high-line or premium CTM is enabled
on vehicles equipped with the VTSS option at the
factory, but a service replacement CTM must be
VTSS-enabled by the dealer using a DRBIIIž scan
tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
The VTSS engine no-run feature is disabled when
it is shipped from the factory. This is done by pro-
gramming within the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). The logic in the PCM prevents the VTSS
engine no-run feature from arming until the engine
start counter within the PCM sees twenty engine
starts. The VTSS no-run feature must be enabled by
the dealer when the vehicle is received from the
assembly plant. Once the VTSS engine no-run fea-
ture has been enabled, it cannot be disabled unless
the PCM is replaced with a new unit. The sameVTSS engine no-run feature enable logic will apply
anytime the PCM is replaced with a new unit.
ARMING
Passive arming of the VTSS occurs when the vehi-
cle is exited with the key removed from the ignition
switch, the headlamps are turned off, and the doors
are locked while they are open using the power lock
switch, or locked after they are closed by turning
either front door lock cylinder to the lock position
using the key. The power lock switch will not func-
tion if the key is in the ignition switch or the head-
lamps are turned on with the driver side front door
open. The VTSS will not arm if the doors are locked
using the mechanical lock button. Active arming of
the VTSS occurs when the ªLockº button on the
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter is
depressed to lock the vehicle. For active arming to
occur, the doors must be closed and the ignition
switch must be in the Off position when the RKE
transmitter ªLockº button is depressed. However,
once the VTSS arming process has been completed,
the ignition switch can be turned to the Accessory
position without triggering the alarm.
Once the VTSS begins passive or active arming,
the security indicator lamp in the overhead console
will flash rapidly for about fifteen seconds. This indi-
cates that the VTSS arming is in progress. Turning a
key in the ignition switch, opening a door, or unlock-
ing a door by any means during the fifteen second
arming process will cause the VTSS indicator to stop
flashing and the arming process to abort. Once the
fifteen second arming function is successfully com-
pleted, the indicator will flash at a slower rate, indi-
cating that the VTSS is armed.
DISARMING
Passive disarming of the VTSS occurs when the
vehicle is unlocked using the key to unlock either
front door. Active disarming of the VTSS occurs when
the vehicle is unlocked by depressing the ªUnlockº
button of the RKE transmitter. Once the alarm has
been activated (horn pulsing, headlamps flashing,
and the engine no-run feature), either disarming
method will also deactivate the alarm. Depressing
the ªPanicº button on the RKE transmitter willnot
disarm the VTSS.
POWER-UP MODE
When the armed VTSS senses that the battery has
been disconnected and reconnected, it enters its pow-
er-up mode. In the power-up mode the alarm system
remains armed following a battery failure or discon-
nect. If the VTSS was armed prior to a battery dis-
connect or failure, the technician or vehicle operator
will have to actively or passively disarm the alarm
system after the battery is reconnected. The pow-
8Q - 2 VEHICLE THEFT SECURITYBR/BE
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)

er-up mode will also apply if the battery goes dead
while the system is armed, and battery jump-starting
is attempted. The engine no-run feature will prevent
the engine from starting until the alarm system has
been actively or passively disarmed. The VTSS will
be armed until the technician or vehicle operator has
actively or passively disarmed the alarm system. If
the VTSS is in the disarmed mode prior to a battery
disconnect or failure, it will remain disarmed after
the battery is reconnected or replaced, or if jump-
starting is attempted.
TAMPER ALERT
The VTSS tamper alert feature will sound the horn
three times upon disarming, if the alarm was trig-
gered and has since timed-out (about fifteen min-
utes). This feature alerts the vehicle operator that
the VTSS alarm was activated while the vehicle was
unattended.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - VEHICLE THEFT
SECURITY SYSTEM
The VTSS-related hard wired inputs to and out-
puts from the high-line or premium Central Timer
Module (CTM) may be diagnosed and tested using
conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. Refer
to the appropriate wiring information. The wiring
information includes wiring diagrams, proper wire
and connector repair procedures, further details on
wire harness routing and retention, as well as pin-
out and location views for the various wire harness
connectors, splices and grounds.
However, conventional diagnostic methods may not
prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the CTM, the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM), or the Chrysler
Collision Detection (CCD) data bus network. In order
to obtain conclusive testing of the VTSS, the CTM,
the PCM, and the CCD data bus network must also
be checked. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate
means to diagnose the VTSS requires the use of a
DRBIIIž scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information. The DRBIIIž scan tool can provide
confirmation that the CCD data bus network is func-
tional, that all of the electronic modules are sending
and receiving the proper messages over the CCD
data bus, and that these modules are receiving the
proper hard wired inputs and responding with the
proper hard wired outputs needed to perform their
functions. See the ªVehicle Theft Security Systemº
menu item on the DRBIIIž scan tool.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
VTSS INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
The Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS) indica-
tor consists of a red Light-Emitting Diode (LED)
located on the electronic circuit board of the Compass
Mini-Trip Computer (CMTC) within the overhead
console. The LED extends through a hole in the
CMTC lens located near the forward end of the over-
head console housing near the windshield.
The VTSS indicator cannot be adjusted or repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, the entire CMTC unit
must be replaced. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/OVER-
HEAD CONSOLE/COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COM-
PUTER - DESCRIPTION).
OPERATION
The Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS) indica-
tor gives a visible indication of the VTSS arming sta-
tus. One side of Light-Emitting Diode (LED) in the
VTSS indicator is connected to battery current
through a fused B(+) circuit and a fuse in the Junc-
tion Block (JB), so the indicator remains functional
regardless of the ignition switch position. The other
side of the LED is hard wired to the Central Timer
Module (CTM), which controls the operation of the
VTSS indicator by pulling this side of the LED cir-
cuit to ground. When the VTSS arming is in
progress, the CTM will flash the LED rapidly on and
off for about fifteen seconds. When the VTSS has
been successfully armed, the CTM will flash the LED
on and off continually at a much slower rate until
the VTSS has been disarmed. The VTSS indicator
can be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools
and methods.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - VTSS INDICATOR
The diagnosis found here addresses an inoperative
Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS) indicator con-
dition. If the problem being diagnosed is related to
indicator accuracy, be certain to confirm that the
problem is with the indicator and not with an inop-
erative VTSS. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/VEHICLE
THEFT SECURITY SYSTEM- DIAGNOSIS AND
BR/BEVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY 8Q - 3
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)

contains all of the switches for both the wiper and
washer systems.
²Washer Fluid Level Switch- The washer fluid
level switch is located in a dedicated hole on the
lower rear side of the washer reservoir, above the
washer pump/motor unit near the left front corner of
the engine compartment.
²Washer Nozzles- The dual fluidic washer noz-
zles are secured with integral snap features to dedi-
cated openings in the cowl plenum cover/grille panel
located near the base of the windshield. The washer
plumbing fittings for the washer nozzles are con-
cealed beneath the cowl plenum cover/grille panel.
²Washer Pump/Motor- The washer pump/mo-
tor unit is located in a dedicated hole on the lower
rear side of the washer reservoir near the left front
corner of the engine compartment.
²Washer Reservoir- The washer reservoir is
secured to the left side of the radiator fan shroud in
the left front corner of the engine compartment.
²Wiper Arms- The two wiper arms are secured
to the two wiper pivots, which extend through the
cowl plenum cover/grille panel located near the base
of the windshield.
²Wiper Blades- The two wiper blades are
secured to the two wiper arms, and are parked on
the glass near the bottom of the windshield when the
wiper system is not in operation.
²Wiper Module- The wiper pivots are the only
visible components of the wiper module. The remain-
der of the module is concealed within the cowl ple-
num beneath the cowl plenum cover/grille panel. The
wiper module includes the module bracket, the single
wiper motor, the wiper linkage, and the two wiper
pivots.
²Wiper Relay- The wiper relay is located in the
Power Distribution Center (PDC) in the engine com-
partment near the battery.
Features of the wiper and washer system include
the following:
²Continuous Wipe Modes- The two-speed
wiper motor and the internal circuitry of the multi-
function switch work in concert to provide two con-
tinuous wipe cycles, low speed or high speed.
²Intermittent Wipe Mode- The internal cir-
cuitry of the multi-function switch, the CTM, and the
wiper relay work in concert to provide an intermit-
tent wipe mode with multiple delay interval selec-
tions. On models with a high-line or premium CTM,
the CTM also automatically adjusts each manually
selected delay interval to compensate for vehicle
speed.
²Washer Mode- When the washer system is
activated with the multi-function switch while the
wiper system is operating, washer fluid will be dis-
pensed onto the windshield glass through the washernozzles for as long as the washer pump/motor is
energized.
²Wipe-After-Wash Mode- The internal circuitry
of the CTM provides a wipe-after-wash feature
which, if the wipers are turned Off, will operate the
washer pump/motor and the wipers for as long as the
washer system is activated, then provide several
additional wipe cycles after the washer system is
deactivated before parking the wiper blades near the
base of the windshield.
Hard wired circuitry connects the wiper and
washer system components to the electrical system of
the vehicle. These hard wired circuits are integral to
several wire harnesses, which are routed throughout
the vehicle and retained by many different methods.
These circuits may be connected to each other, to the
vehicle electrical system and to the wiper and washer
system components through the use of a combination
of soldered splices, splice block connectors, and many
different types of wire harness terminal connectors
and insulators. Refer to the appropriate wiring infor-
mation. The wiring information includes wiring dia-
grams, proper wire and connector repair procedures,
further details on wire harness routing and reten-
tion, as well as pin-out and location views for the
various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.
OPERATION
The wiper and washer system is intended 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 multi-function
switch control stalk that extends from the left side of
the steering column, just below the steering wheel.
Rotating the knob on the end of the multi-function
switch control stalk selects the desired wiper system
operating mode. The wiper system allows the vehicle
operator to select from two continuous wiper speeds,
Hi or Lo, or one of several intermittent wipe Delay
mode intervals. Pushing the button on the end of the
control stalk downwards towards the steering column
8R - 2 WIPERS/WASHERSBR/BE
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

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.
WASHER FLUID LEVEL
SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The washer fluid level switch is a single pole, sin-
gle throw reed-type switch mounted on the rear of
the washer reservoir above the washer pump/motor,
in the left front corner of the engine compartment.
Only the molded plastic switch mounting flange and
connector receptacle are visible when the switch is
installed in the reservoir. A short nipple formation
extends from the inner surface of the switch mount-
ing flange, and a barb on the nipple near the switch
mounting flange is press-fit into a rubber grommet
seal installed in the mounting hole of the reservoir. A
small plastic float pivots on the end of a bracket that
extends from the switch nipple formation. Within the
float is a small magnet, which actuates the reed
switch. The washer fluid level switch cannot be
adjusted or repaired. If faulty or damaged, the switch
must be replaced.
OPERATION
The washer fluid level switch uses a pivoting,
oblong float to monitor the level of the washer fluid
in the washer reservoir. The float contains a small
magnet. When the float pivots, the changing proxim-
ity of its magnetic field will cause the contacts of the
small, stationary reed switch to open or close. When
the fluid level in the washer reservoir is at or above
the float level, the float moves to a vertical position
and the switch contacts open. When the fluid level in
the washer reservoir falls below the pivoting float,
the float moves to a horizontal position and the
switch contacts close. The switch contacts are con-
nected in series between ground and the washer fluid
switch sense input of the instrument cluster. The
switch is connected to the vehicle electrical system
through a dedicated take out and connector of the
headlamp and dash wire harness. The switch
receives ground through another take out of the
headlamp and dash wire harness with a single eyelet
terminal connector that is secured under a nut to a
ground stud located on the front extension of the left
front wheel housing in the engine compartment. The
washer fluid level switch can be diagnosed using con-
ventional diagnostic tools and methods. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/WASHER
FLUID INDICATOR - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).Fig. 1 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
BR/BEWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 7
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

REMOVAL
The washer fluid level switch can be removed from
the washer reservoir without removing the reservoir
from the vehicle.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) 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.
(3) Disconnect the headlamp and dash wire har-
ness connector for the washer fluid level switch from
the switch connector receptacle (Fig. 2).
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
downwards.
(4) 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 rear of the reservoir. Care must be taken
not to damage the reservoir.
(5) Remove the washer fluid level switch and float
from the washer reservoir.
(6) Remove the rubber grommet seal from the
washer fluid level switch mounting hole in the
washer reservoir and discard.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install a new rubber grommet seal into the
washer fluid level switch mounting hole in the front
of the washer reservoir. Always use a new rubber
grommet seal on the reservoir.
(2) Position the float of the washer fluid level
switch through the rubber grommet seal in the
washer reservoir (Fig. 2). The connector receptacle of
the washer fluid level switch should be pointed
downward.
(3) Press firmly and evenly on the washer fluid
level switch using hand pressure until the barbed
nipple is fully seated in the rubber grommet seal in
the washer reservoir mounting hole.
(4) Reconnect the headlamp and dash wire harness
connector for the washer fluid level switch to the
switch connector receptacle.
(5) Reconnect the washer hose to the barbed outlet
nipple of the washer pump/motor unit.
(6) Refill the washer reservoir with the washer
fluid drained from the reservoir during the removal
procedure.
(7) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
WASHER HOSES/TUBES
DESCRIPTION
The washer plumbing consists of a small diameter
rubber hose that is routed from the barbed outlet
nipple of the washer pump/motor on the washer res-
ervoir through the engine compartment along the left
inner fender shield to a molded plastic in-line fitting
with barbed nipples near the dash panel. A second
section of washer hose passes from the engine com-
partment into the cowl plenum area through a dedi-
cated hole with a rubber grommet near the left end
of the cowl plenum panel. Beneath the cowl plenum
cover/grille panel, a molded plastic wye fitting with
barbed nipples joins the engine compartment hose to
the two washer nozzle hoses. The two washer hoses
are routed through locating clips on the underside of
the cowl plenum cover/grille panel to the two washer
nozzles.
Washer hose is available for service only as roll
stock, which must then be cut to length. The molded
plastic washer hose fittings cannot be repaired. If
these fittings are faulty or damaged, they must be
replaced.
OPERATION
Washer fluid in the washer reservoir is pressurized
and fed by the washer pump/motor through the
washer system plumbing and fittings to the two
washer nozzles. Whenever routing the washer hose
or a wire harness containing a washer hose, it must
Fig. 2 Washer Reservoir
1 - FAN SHROUD
2 - WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
3 - WASHER PUMP/MOTOR
4 - WASHER RESERVOIR
8R - 8 WIPERS/WASHERSBR/BE
WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH (Continued)