2002 DODGE RAM wiper fluid

WASHER FLUID INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A washer fluid indicator is standard equipment on
all instrument clusters. The washer fluid indicator is
located near the lower edge of the instrument cluster
overlay, to the right of center. The washer fluid indi-
cator consists of a stenciled cutout of the words
ªLOW WASHERº in the opaque layer of the instru-
ment cluster overlay. The dark outer layer of the
overlay prevents the indicator from being clearly vis-
ible when it is not illuminated. An amber lens behind
the cutout in the opaque layer of the overlay causes
the ªLOW WASHERº text to appear in amber
through the translucent outer layer of the overlay
when it is illuminated from behind by a Light Emit-
ting Diode (LED) soldered onto the instrument clus-
ter electronic circuit board. The washer fluid
indicator is serviced as a unit with the instrument
cluster.
OPERATION
The washer fluid indicator gives an indication to
the vehicle operator when the fluid level in the
washer fluid reservoir is low. This indicator is con-
trolled by a transistor on the instrument cluster elec-
tronic circuit board based upon cluster programming
and a hard wired washer fluid level switch input to
the cluster. The washer fluid indicator Light Emit-
ting Diode (LED) receives battery current on the
instrument cluster electronic circuit board through
the fused ignition switch output (st-run) circuit
whenever the ignition switch is in the On or Start
positions; therefore, the indicator will always be off
when the ignition switch is in any position except On
or Start. The LED only illuminates when it is pro-
vided a path to ground by the instrument cluster
transistor. The instrument cluster will turn on the
washer fluid indicator for the following reasons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the indicator is illuminated
for about two seconds as a bulb test.
²Washer Fluid Level Switch Input- Immedi-
ately after the bulb test, if the cluster senses ground
on the washer fluid switch sense circuit for more
than about thirty seconds, it turns on the washer
fluid indicator. Any time after the bulb test, the clus-
ter must sense ground on the washer fluid switch
sense circuit for more than about sixty seconds before
it turns on the indicator. Once illuminated, the indi-
cator will remain illuminated until the ignition
switch is cycled and the cluster senses an open cir-
cuit on the low washer fluid sense input. This strat-
egy is intended to reduce the effect that fluid
sloshing within the washer reservoir can have on
reliable indicator operation.²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the indicator will be
turned on during the bulb check portion of the test to
confirm the functionality of the LED and the cluster
control circuitry.
The washer fluid level switch is connected in series
between ground and the washer fluid switch sense
input to the instrument cluster. For more informa-
tion on the washer fluid level switch,(Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS/WASHER FLUID
LEVEL SWITCH - OPERATION). For further diag-
nosis of the washer fluid indicator or the instrument
cluster circuitry that controls the indicator, (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAG-
NOSIS AND TESTING). The washer fluid level
switch input to the cluster can be diagnosed using
conventional diagnostic tools and methods.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WASHER FLUID
INDICATOR
The diagnosis found here addresses an inoperative
washer fluid indicator condition. If the problem being
diagnosed is related to indicator accuracy, be certain
to confirm that the problem is with the indicator or
washer fluid level switch input and not with a dam-
aged or empty washer fluid reservoir, or inoperative
instrument cluster indicator control circuitry. Inspect
the washer fluid reservoir for proper fluid level and
signs of damage or distortion that could affect
washer fluid level switch performance and perform
the instrument cluster actuator test before you pro-
ceed with the following diagnosis. If no washer fluid
reservoir or instrument cluster control circuitry prob-
lem is found, the following procedure will help to
locate a short or open in the washer fluid switch
sense circuit. Refer to the appropriate wiring infor-
mation. The wiring information includes wiring dia-
grams, proper wire and connector repair procedures,
details of wire harness routing and retention, connec-
tor pin-out information and location views for the
various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.
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.
BR/BEINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 35

WIPERS/WASHERS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
WIPERS/WASHERS
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIPER &
WASHER SYSTEM.....................3
CLEANING - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM.....6
INSPECTION - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM . . . 6
WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
DESCRIPTION..........................7
OPERATION............................7
REMOVAL.............................8
INSTALLATION..........................8
WASHER HOSES/TUBES
DESCRIPTION..........................8
OPERATION............................8
WASHER NOZZLE
DESCRIPTION..........................9
OPERATION............................9
REMOVAL.............................9
INSTALLATION..........................9
WASHER PUMP/MOTOR
DESCRIPTION..........................9
OPERATION............................9
REMOVAL.............................10
INSTALLATION.........................10
WASHER RESERVOIR
DESCRIPTION.........................10OPERATION...........................10
REMOVAL.............................10
INSTALLATION.........................11
WIPER ARM
DESCRIPTION.........................11
OPERATION...........................11
REMOVAL.............................12
INSTALLATION.........................12
WIPER BLADE
DESCRIPTION.........................12
OPERATION...........................13
REMOVAL.............................13
INSTALLATION.........................13
WIPER MODULE
DESCRIPTION.........................13
OPERATION...........................14
REMOVAL.............................14
INSTALLATION.........................14
WIPER RELAY
DESCRIPTION.........................15
OPERATION...........................15
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIPER RELAY . . . 16
REMOVAL.............................17
INSTALLATION.........................17
WIPERS/WASHERS
DESCRIPTION
An electrically operated intermittent wiper and
washer system is standard factory-installed safety
equipment on this model. The wiper and washer sys-
tem includes the following major components, which
are described in further detail elsewhere in this ser-
vice information:
²Central Timer Module- The Central Timer
Module (CTM) is located under the driver side end of
the instrument panel, inboard of the instrument
panel steering column opening. A base version of the
CTM is used on base models of this vehicle. The base
version of the CTM combines the functions of a
chime module and an intermittent wipe module in a
single unit. The high-line version of the CTM is used
on high-line vehicles. The high-line CTM provides all
of the functions of the base version of the CTM, but
also is used to control and integrate many additionalelectronic functions and features included on high-
line models. The premium version of the CTM is the
same as the high-line version, but is used only on
models equipped with the heated seat option. The
high-line and premium versions of the CTM contain
integrated circuitry, a central processing unit and the
programming to provide all of the proper wiper and
washer system features based upon the monitored
inputs. The high-line and premium CTM circuitry
monitors hard wired switch inputs, as well as mes-
sage inputs received from other vehicle electronic
modules on the Chrysler Collision Detection (CCD)
data bus network. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/ELEC-
TRONIC CONTROL MODULES/BODY CONTROL/
CENTRAL TIMER MODULE - DESCRIPTION).
²Multi-Function Switch- The multi-function
switch is secured to the left side of the steering col-
umn, just below the steering wheel. Only the control
stalk for the multi-function switch is visible, the
remainder of the switch is concealed beneath the
steering column shrouds. The multi-function switch
BR/BEWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 1

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)

activates the washer pump/motor, which dispenses
washer fluid onto the windshield glass through the
washer nozzles.
When the ignition switch is in the Accessory or On
positions, battery current from a fuse in the Junction
Block (JB) is provided through a fused ignition
switch output (run-acc) circuit to the wiper motor
park switch, the wiper relay, and the multi-function
switch. The internal circuitry of the multi-function
switch provides a direct hard wired battery current
output to the low speed or high speed brushes of the
wiper motor when the Lo or Hi switch setting is
selected, which causes the wipers to cycle at the
selected speed. The intermittent wipe, and wipe-af-
ter-wash features of the wiper and washer system
are provided by the electronic intermittent wipe logic
circuit within the Central Timer Module (CTM). In
order to provide the intermittent wipe feature, the
CTM monitors the wiper switch state and the wiper
motor park switch state. In order to provide the
wipe-after-wash feature, the CTM monitors both the
washer switch state and the wiper motor park switch
state. When a Delay position is selected with the
multi-function switch control knob, the CTM logic cir-
cuit responds by calculating the correct delay inter-
val. The CTM then energizes the wiper relay by
pulling the relay control coil to ground. The ener-
gized wiper relay directs battery current through the
normally open contact of the relay back through the
internal circuitry of the multi-function switch to the
low speed brush of the wiper motor. The CTM moni-
tors the wiper motor operation through the wiper
park switch sense circuit, which allows the CTM to
determine the proper timing to begin the next wiper
blade sweep. The normal delay intervals are driver
adjustable from about one-half second to about eigh-
teen seconds.
The high-line and premium CTM also provides a
speed sensitive intermittent wipe feature. By moni-
toring vehicle speed messages received from the Pow-
ertrain Control Module (PCM) over the Chrysler
Collision Detection (CCD) data bus network, the
high-line or premium CTM is able to adjust the delay
intervals to compensate for vehicle speed. Above
about sixteen kilometers-per-hour (ten miles-per-
hour) the delay is driver adjustable from about one-
half second to about eighteen seconds. Below about
sixteen kilometers-per-hour (ten miles-per-hour) the
delay times are doubled by the CTM, from about one
second to about thirty-six seconds.
When the Off position of the multi-function switch
wiper control knob is selected, one of two events is
possible. The event that will occur depends upon the
position of the wiper blades on the windshield at the
moment that the Off position is selected. If the wiper
blades are in the down position on the windshieldwhen the Off position is selected, the park switch
that is integral to the wiper motor is closed to ground
and the wiper motor ceases to operate. If the wiper
blades are not in the down position on the windshield
at the moment the Off position is selected, the park
switch is closed to battery current through a fused
ignition switch output (run-acc) circuit. The park
switch sense circuit directs this battery current to
the low speed brush of the wiper motor through the
normally closed contact of the wiper relay and the
internal Off position circuitry of the multi-function
switch. This causes the wiper motor to continue run-
ning until the wiper blades are in the down position
on the windshield and the park switch is again
closed to ground.
When the Wash position of the multi-function
switch is selected, the Wash position circuitry within
the switch directs battery current to the washer
pump/motor. The CTM monitors the washer switch
state through a washer switch sense input. When the
washer switch is closed with the wiper system turned
Off, the CTM operates the wiper motor through the
wiper relay in the same manner as it does to provide
the Delay mode operation. After the state of the
washer switch changes to open, the CTM monitors
the wiper motor through the wiper park switch sense
circuit, which allows the CTM to monitor the number
of wiper blade sweeps.
Proper testing of the CTM, the PCM, or the CCD
data bus vehicle speed messages requires a DRBIIIt
scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation. Refer to the owner's manual in the vehicle
glove box for more information on the features and
operation of the wiper and washer system.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIPER &
WASHER SYSTEM
WIPER SYSTEM
The diagnosis found here addresses an electrically
inoperative wiper system. If the wiper motor oper-
ates, but the wipers do not move on the windshield,
replace the faulty wiper module. If the wipers oper-
ate, but chatter, lift, or do not clear the glass, clean
and inspect the wiper system components as
required. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/
WASHERS - INSPECTION) and (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS - CLEANING). Refer to
the appropriate wiring information. The wiring infor-
mation 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 con-
nectors, splices and grounds.
The following tests will help to diagnose the hard
wired components and circuits of the wiper system.
BR/BEWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 3
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

(10) Disconnect the headlamp and dash wire har-
ness connector for the wiper module from the wiper
motor pigtail wire connector. Reconnect the battery
negative cable. Turn the ignition switch to the On
position. Place the multi-function switch in the posi-
tions indicated in the tests below, and check for bat-
tery voltage at the appropriate cavity of the
headlamp and dash wire harness connector for the
wiper motor.
(a) Check for battery voltage at the fused igni-
tion switch output (run-acc) circuit cavity of the
headlamp and dash wire harness connector for the
wiper module with the multi-function switch in
any position. If OK, go to Step b. If not OK, repair
the open fused ignition switch output (run-acc) cir-
cuit between the wiper module and the JB as
required.
(b) Check for battery voltage at the wiper switch
low speed output circuit cavity of the headlamp
and dash wire harness connector for the wiper
module with the multi-function switch in the Lo
position. If OK, go to Step c. If not OK, repair the
open wiper switch low speed output circuit between
the wiper module and the multi-function switch as
required.
(c) Check for battery voltage at the wiper switch
high speed output circuit cavity of the headlamp
and dash wire harness connector for the wiper
module with the multi-function switch in the Hi
position. If OK, go to Step d. If not OK, repair the
open wiper switch high speed output circuit
between the wiper module and the multi-function
switch as required.
(d) Check for battery voltage at the wiper park
switch sense circuit cavity of the headlamp and
dash wire harness connector for the wiper module
with the multi-function switch in the Lo or Hi posi-
tion, then move the switch to the Off position. The
meter should switch between battery voltage and
zero volts while the wipers are cycling. The meter
should read battery voltage when the switch is
first moved to the Off position until the wipers
park, and then read a steady zero volts. If not OK,
replace the faulty wiper module.
WASHER SYSTEM
The diagnosis found here addresses an electrically
inoperative washer system. If the washer pump/mo-
tor operates, but no washer fluid is emitted from the
washer nozzles, be certain to check the fluid level in
the reservoir. Also inspect the washer system compo-
nents as required. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIP-
ERS/WASHERS - INSPECTION). Refer to the
appropriate wiring information. The wiring informa-
tion includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and con-
nector repair procedures, details of wire harnessrouting and retention, connector pin-out information
and location views for the various wire harness con-
nectors, splices and grounds.
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.
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
Turn the multi-function switch wiper control knob to
the Lo or Hi speed position. Check whether the wip-
ers operate. If OK, go to Step 2. If not OK, repair the
wiper system as required before proceeding with the
following tests. Refer to WIPER SYSTEM .
(2) Turn the multi-function switch wiper control
knob to the Off position. Depress the washer button.
The washer pump should operate and the wipers
should operate for as long as the washer button is
depressed. The wipers should continue to operate for
about three sweep cycles after the button is released
before they park. If the wipers are OK, but the wash-
ers are not, go to Step 3. If the washers are OK, but
the wipers are not, go to Step 5.
(3) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Disconnect the headlamp and dash wire harness con-
nector for the washer pump/motor from the motor
connector receptacle. Measure the resistance between
the ground circuit cavity of the headlamp and dash
wire harness connector for the washer pump/motor
and a good ground. The meter should read zero
ohms. If OK, go to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open
ground circuit to ground (G100) as required.
(4) Reconnect the battery negative cable. Turn the
ignition switch to the On position. With the washer
button depressed, check for battery voltage at the
washer switch output circuit cavity of the headlamp
and dash wire harness connector for the washer
pump/motor. If OK, replace the faulty washer pump/
motor. If not OK, repair the open washer switch out-
put circuit between the washer pump/motor and the
multi-function switch as required.
(5) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Disconnect the instrument panel wire harness con-
nector (Connector C1) for the Central Timer Module
BR/BEWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 5
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

(CTM) from the CTM connector receptacle. Reconnect
the battery negative cable. Turn the ignition switch
to the On position. With the washer button
depressed, check for battery voltage at the washer
switch sense circuit cavity of the instrument panel
wire harness connector (Connector C1) for the CTM.
If OK, proceed to the diagnosis for the wiper relay.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS/
WIPER RELAY - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). If
not OK, repair the open washer switch sense circuit
between the CTM and the multi-function switch as
required.
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
front washer pump/motor from the reservoir. Clean
foreign material from the inside of the washer reser-
voir using clean washer fluid, a mild detergent, or a
non-abrasive 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.
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. 1). 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
8R - 6 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 - LOW WASHER FLUID SENSOR
3 - WASHER PUMP
4 - WASHER RESERVOIR
8R - 8 WIPERS/WASHERSBR/BE
WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH (Continued)