wiper blades DODGE RAM 1500 1998 2.G Workshop Manual

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

INSTALLATION
(1) Position reservoir onto 2 weld studs (Fig. 11).
(2) Install 2 mounting nuts and tighten. Refer to
torque specifications.
(3) Connect vacuum line to reservoir fitting.
(4) Install cowl grill. Refer to Cowl Grill Removal /
Installation.
(5) Install wiper arms / blades. Refer to Wiper Arm
Removal / Installation.
Fig. 11 VACUUM RESERVOIR REMOVAL /
INSTALLATION
1 - COWL (BELOW WIPER ARMS)
2 - VACUUM LINE CONNECTION
3 - MOUNTING NUTS (2)
4 - VACUUM RESERVOIR
5 - WELDED STUDS
8P - 10 SPEED CONTROLDR
VACUUM RESERVOIR (Continued)

is secured by integral mounting tabs and a snap fea-
ture to slots in the right side of the cooling module
shroud in the engine compartment. On models with
an optional diesel engine, the washer reservoir is
secured by screws to the back of the upright left ver-
tical member of the radiator support in the engine
compartment. The washer reservoir filler neck is
accessed from the engine compartment.
²Wiper Arm- The two wiper arms are secured
with integral latches to the serrated ends of the two
wiper pivot shafts, which extend through the cowl
plenum cover/grille panel located near the base of the
windshield.
²Wiper Blade- The two wiper blades are
secured to the two wiper arms with an integral latch,
and are parked on the glass near the bottom of the
windshield when the wiper system is not in opera-
tion.
²Wiper High/Low Relay- The wiper high/low
relay is an International Standards Organization
(ISO) micro relay located in the Integrated Power
Module (IPM) in the engine compartment near the
battery.
²Wiper Module- The wiper pivot shafts are the
only visible components of the wiper module. The
remainder of the module is concealed within the cowl
plenum area beneath the cowl plenum cover/grille
panel. The wiper module includes the wiper module
bracket, four rubber-isolated wiper module mounts,
the wiper motor, the wiper motor crank arm, the two
wiper drive links, and the two wiper pivots.
²Wiper On/Off Relay- The wiper on/off relay is
an International Standards Organization (ISO) micro
relay located in the Integrated Power Module (IPM)
in the engine compartment near the battery.
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.
OPERATING MODES
The components of the wiper and washer system
are designed to work in concert to provide the follow-
ing operating modes:²Continuous Wipe Mode- The control knob on
the control stalk of the multi-function switch has two
continuous wipe positions, Low and High. When
selected, these switch positions will cause the two-
speed wiper motor to operate in a continuous low or
high speed cycle.
²Intermittent Wipe Mode- The control knob on
the control stalk of the multi-function switch has five
minor detent intermittent wipe positions. When
selected, these switch positions will cause the wiper
system to operate with one of five delay intervals
between complete wipe cycles. The intermittent wipe
delay intervals are speed sensitive and will be dou-
bled when the vehicle speed is about sixteen kilome-
ters-per-hour (ten miles-per-hour) or less.
²Pulse Wipe Mode- When the control knob on
the control stalk of the multi-function switch is
depressed to the momentary Wash position for less
than about one-half second, the wiper system will
operate the wipers for one complete low speed cycle,
then will park the wiper blades near the base of the
windshield.
²Washer Mode- When the control knob on the
control stalk of the multi-function switch is
depressed to the momentary Wash position for more
than about one-half second with the wiper system
turned Off, the washer pump/motor and the wipers
will operate for as long as the washer switch is held
closed up to about thirty seconds, then the wipe-af-
ter-wash mode is invoked when the control knob is
released. When the Wash position is selected with
the wiper system operating in a continuous wipe
mode, washer fluid will be dispensed onto the wind-
shield glass through the washer nozzles for as long
as the washer switch is held closed up to about thirty
seconds. When the Wash position is selected with the
wiper system operating in an intermittent wipe
mode, washer fluid is still dispensed until the control
knob is released; however, the wipers will operate in
a low speed continuous cycle from the time the
washer switch is closed until several wipe cycles
after the switch is released, before returning to the
selected intermittent wipe interval. If the control
knob is held in the depressed Wash position for more
than about thirty seconds, washer system operation
will be suspended until the control knob is released
for about two seconds then cycled back to the Wash
position.
²Wipe-After-Wash Mode- When the control
knob on the control stalk of the multi-function switch
is depressed to the momentary Wash position for
more than about one-half second with the wiper sys-
tem turned Off, the washer pump/motor and the wip-
ers will operate for as long as the washer switch is
held closed up to about thirty seconds, then provide
several additional wipe cycles after the control knob
DRWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 3
WIPERS/WASHERS (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)

the wiper motor was operating at high speed, the
FCM immediately de-energizes the wiper high/low
relay causing the wiper motor to return to low speed
operation. Then one of two events will occur. The
event that occurs depends upon the position of the
wiper blades on the windshield at the moment that
the control knob Off position is selected.
If the wiper blades are in the down position on the
windshield when the Off position is selected, the
park switch that is integral to the wiper motor is
closed to ground and provides a hard wired park
switch sense input to the FCM. The FCM then de-en-
ergizes the wiper on/off relay 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 an open
circuit and the FCM keeps the wiper on/off relay
energized, which causes the wiper motor to continue
running at low speed until the wiper blades are in
the down position on the windshield and the park
switch input to the FCM is again closed to ground.
INTERMITTENT WIPE MODE
When the control knob on the control stalk of the
multi-function switch is moved to one of the Delay
interval positions the instrument cluster sends an
electronic wiper switch delay message to the FCM,
then the FCM electronic intermittent wipe logic cir-
cuit responds by calculating the correct length of
time between wiper sweeps based upon the selected
delay interval input. The FCM monitors the changing
state of the wiper motor park switch through a hard
wired park switch sense input. This input allows the
FCM to determine the proper intervals at which to
energize and de-energize the wiper on/off relay to
operate the wiper motor intermittently for one low
speed cycle at a time.
The FCM logic is also programmed to provide vehi-
cle speed sensitivity to the selected intermittent wipe
delay intervals. In order to provide this feature the
FCM monitors electronic vehicle speed messages
from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and dou-
bles the selected delay interval whenever the vehicle
speed is about sixteen kilometers-per-hour (ten miles-
per-hour) or less.
PULSE WIPE MODE
When the control knob on the control stalk of the
multi-function switch is depressed to the momentary
Wash position for less than about one-half second,
the instrument cluster sends an electronic washer
switch message to the FCM, then the FCM the ener-
gizes the wiper on/off relay for one complete wipe
cycle. The FCM de-energizes the relay when the state
of the park switch sense changes to ground, parking
the wiper blades near the base of the windshield.WASH MODE
When the control knob on the control stalk of the
multi-function switch is depressed to the momentary
Wash position for more than about one-half second,
the instrument cluster sends an electronic washer
switch message to the FCM, then the FCM directs
battery current to the washer pump/motor unit. This
will cause the washer pump/motor unit to be ener-
gized for as long as the Wash switch is held closed up
to about thirty seconds, and to de-energize when the
front Wash switch is released.
When the control knob is depressed to the momen-
tary Wash position while the wiper system is operat-
ing in one of the Delay interval positions, the washer
pump/motor operation is the same. However, the
FCM also energizes the wiper on/off relay to override
the selected delay interval and operate the wiper
motor in a continuous low speed mode for as long as
the control knob is held depressed, then de-energizes
the relay and reverts to the selected delay mode
interval several wipe cycles after the control knob is
released. If the control knob is held depressed for
more than about thirty seconds, the FCM will sus-
pend washer pump/motor operation until the knob is
released for about two seconds, then cycled back to
the Wash position.
WIPE-AFTER-WASH MODE
When the control knob on the control stalk of the
multi-function switch is depressed to the momentary
Wash position for more than about one-half second
while the wiper system is not operating, the instru-
ment cluster sends an electronic washer switch mes-
sage to the FCM, then the FCM the directs battery
current to the washer pump/motor unit and energizes
the wiper on/off relay. This will cause the washer
pump/motor unit to be energized and operate the
wiper motor in a continuous low speed mode for as
long as the Wash switch is held closed up to about
thirty seconds. When the control knob is released,
the FCM de-energizes the washer pump/motor unit,
but allows the wiper motor to operate for several
additional wipe cycles before it de-energizes the
wiper on/off relay and parks the wiper blades near
the base of the windshield.
If the control knob is held depressed for more than
about thirty seconds, the FCM will suspend washer
pump/motor operation until the knob is released for
about two seconds, then cycled back to the Wash
position; however, the wipers will continue to operate
for as long as the Wash switch is held closed. The
FCM monitors the changing state of the wiper motor
park switch through a hard wired wiper park switch
sense circuit input. This input allows the FCM to
count the number of wipe cycles that occur after the
Wash switch is released, and to determine the proper
DRWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 5
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)

plenum cover/grille panel near the base of the wind-
shield and the wiper blades on the windshield glass
(Fig. 18). These wiper arms feature an over-center
hinge that allows easy access to the windshield glass
for cleaning. The wiper arm has a die cast metal
pivot end with a large internally serrated socket for-
mation at one end. A key within the socket formation
indexes the wiper arm to a keyway in the pivot shaft
of the wiper module to provide wiper alignment, and
a spring-loaded latch on the underside of the wiper
arm pivot end locks the unit to the pivot shaft when
it is fully installed. The right and left wiper arms for
this model are not interchangeable, as the right
wiper arm is slightly longer than the left one.
The wide end of a tapered, stamped steel channel
hinges on and is secured with a hinge pin to the
blade end of the wiper arm pivot end. One end of a
long, rigid, stamped steel strap, with a small hole
near its pivot end, is riveted and crimped within the
narrow end of the stamped steel channel. The tip of
the wiper blade end of this strap is bent back under
itself to form a small hook. Concealed within the
stamped steel channel, one end of a long spring is
engaged with a wire hook on the underside of the die
cast pivot end, while the other end of the spring is
hooked through the small hole in the steel strap. The
entire wiper arm has a satin black finish applied to
all of its visible surfaces.
A wiper arm cannot be adjusted or repaired. If
damaged or faulty, the entire wiper arm unit must be
replaced.
OPERATION
The wiper arms are designed to mechanically
transmit the motion from the wiper pivots to the
wiper blades. The wiper arm must be properly
indexed to the wiper pivot in order to maintain the
proper wiper blade travel on the glass. The serrated
and keyed socket formation in the wiper arm pivot
end interlocks with the serrations and keyway on the
outer circumference of the wiper pivot shaft, provid-
ing positive engagement and alignment of this con-
nection. The latch positively locks the wiper arm to
the wiper pivot shaft when the arm is fully installed.
The spring-loaded wiper arm hinge controls the
down-force applied through the tip of the wiper arm
to the wiper blade on the glass. The hook formation
on the tip of the wiper arm provides a cradle for
securing and latching the wiper blade pivot block to
the wiper arm.
REMOVAL
(1) Lift the wiper arm to its over-center position to
hold the wiper blade off of the glass and relieve the
spring tension on the wiper arm to wiper pivot shaft
connection.(2) Pull the latch on the pivot end of the wiper
arm outward (Fig. 19).
(3) Remove the wiper arm pivot end from the
wiper pivot shaft.
INSTALLATION
The right and left wiper arms are not interchange-
able. The right wiper arm is slightly longer than the
left. Be certain that each wiper arm is installed on
the proper wiper pivot.
(1) Place the wiper arm hinge in its over-center
position prior to attempting installation.
(2) The wiper arms are indexed to the wiper pivot
shafts with integral keys in the wiper arm pivot ends
and keyways in the wiper pivot shafts. Align the key
of the wiper arm to the keyway on the wiper pivot
shaft.
(3) Once the wiper blade is aligned, push the pivot
of the wiper arm down firmly and evenly over the
wiper pivot shaft until it is fully engaged. When the
wiper arm is fully engaged on the wiper pivot, the
spring-loaded latch (Fig. 19) will snap back into place
against the wiper arm pivot end.
(4) Gently lower the wiper arm until the wiper
blade is in position on the windshield glass.
WIPER BLADE
DESCRIPTION
Each wiper blade is secured by an integral latching
pivot block to the hook formation on the tip of each
wiper arm, and rests on the glass near the base of
the windshield when the wipers are not in operation
(Fig. 20). The wiper blade consists of the following
components:
Fig. 19 Wiper Arm Remove/Install
1 - WIPER ARM PIVOT END
2-LATCH
8R - 18 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
WIPER ARM (Continued)

²Superstructure- The superstructure includes
several stamped steel bridges and links with claw
formations that grip the wiper blade element. Also
included in this unit is the latching, molded plastic
pivot block that secures the superstructure to the
wiper arm. All of the metal components of the wiper
blade have a satin black finish applied.
²Element- The wiper element or squeegee is the
resilient rubber member of the wiper blade that con-
tacts the glass.
²Flexor- The flexor is a rigid metal component
running along the length of each side of the wiper
element where it is gripped by the claws of the
superstructure.
All models have two 60.00 centimeter (23.62 inch)
long wiper blades with non-replaceable rubber ele-
ments (squeegees). The wiper blades cannot be
adjusted or repaired. If faulty, worn, or damaged the
entire wiper blade unit must be replaced.
OPERATION
The wiper blades are moved back and forth across
the glass by the wiper arms when the wipers are
being operated. The wiper blade superstructure is
the flexible frame that grips the wiper blade element
and evenly distributes the force of the spring-loaded
wiper arm along the length of the element. The com-
bination of the wiper arm force and the flexibility of
the superstructure makes the element conform to
and maintain proper contact with the glass, even as
the blade is moved over the varied curvature that
may be encountered across the glass surface. The
wiper element flexor provides the claws of the bladesuperstructure with a rigid, yet flexible component
on the element which can be gripped. The rubber ele-
ment is designed to be stiff enough to maintain an
even cleaning edge as it is drawn across the glass,
yet resilient enough to conform to the glass surface
and flip from one cleaning edge to the other each
time the wiper blade changes directions.
REMOVAL
NOTE: The notched end of the wiper element flexor
should always be oriented towards the end of the
wiper blade that is nearest to the wiper pivot.
(1) Lift the wiper arm to raise the wiper blade and
element off of the glass, until the wiper arm hinge is
in its over-center position.
(2) To remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm,
depress the pivot block latch release tab under the
tip of the arm and slide the blade away from the tip
towards the pivot end of the arm far enough to dis-
engage the pivot block from the hook formation on
the end of the arm (Fig. 21).
(3) Extract the hook formation on the tip of the
wiper arm through the opening in the wiper blade
superstructure just ahead of the wiper blade pivot
block/latch unit.
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.
(4) Gently lower the tip of the wiper arm onto the
glass.
Fig. 20 Wiper Blade
1 - SUPERSTRUCTURE
2 - ELEMENT
3 - PIVOT BLOCK
4 - RELEASE TAB
5 - PIVOT PIN
6 - CLAWS
7 - FLEXOR
Fig. 21 Wiper Blade Remove/Install
1 - SUPERSTRUCTURE
2 - WIPER ARM
3 - PIVOT BLOCK
4 - RELEASE TAB
5 - HOOK
6 - ELEMENT
DRWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 19
WIPER BLADE (Continued)

INSTALLATION
(1) Position the wiper high/low relay to the proper
receptacle in the Integrated Power Module (IPM)
(Fig. 24).
(2) Align the wiper high/low relay terminals with
the terminal cavities in the IPM receptacle.
(3) Push firmly and evenly on the top of the wiper
high/low relay until the terminals are fully seated in
the terminal cavities in the IPM receptacle.
(4) Reinstall the cover onto the IPM.
(5) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
WIPER MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The wiper motor bracket is secured with two
screws below the wiper motor through two rubber
insulators to the bottom of the cowl plenum panel
beneath the cowl plenum cover/grille panel (Fig. 25).
Two screws secure the top of the wiper module
bracket to the cowl plenum panel through rubber
insulators located on the outboard end of each pivot
bracket. The ends of the wiper pivot shafts that pro-
trude through dedicated openings in the cowl plenum
cover/grille panel to drive the wiper arms and bladesare the only visible components of the wiper module.
The wiper module consists of the following major
components:
²Bracket- The wiper module bracket consists of
a long tubular steel main member that has a die cast
pivot bracket formation near each end where the two
wiper pivots are secured. A stamped steel clamp
secures the center of the tubular member to the die
cast bracket integral to the wiper motor with two
screws.
²Crank Arm- The wiper motor crank arm is a
stamped steel unit with a slotted hole on the driven
end that is secured to the wiper motor output shaft
with a nut, and has a ball stud secured to the drive
end.
²Linkage- Two stamped steel drive links con-
nect the wiper motor crank arm to the wiper pivot
lever arms. The left side drive link has a plastic sock-
et-type bushing on each end. The right side drive
link has a plastic socket-type bushing on one end,
and a plastic sleeve-type bushing on the other end.
The socket-type bushing on one end of each drive
link is snap-fit over the ball stud on the lever arm of
its respective pivot. The right side drive link sleeve-
type bushing end is then fit over the motor crank
arm ball stud, and the other socket-type bushing of
the left side drive link is snap-fit over the exposed
end of the wiper motor crank arm ball stud.
²Motor- The wiper motor features an integral
die cast bracket to which the wiper module bracket is
secured with a stamped steel clamp and two screws
near the top and which has two rubber insulated
mounting ears at the bottom. This die casting also
serves as the wiper motor transmission housing from
which the wiper motor output shaft exits. A nut
secures the wiper motor crank arm to the motor out-
put shaft. The two-speed permanent magnet wiper
motor features an integral transmission, an internal
park switch, and an internal automatic resetting cir-
cuit breaker.
²Pivots- The two front wiper pivots are secured
within the die cast pivot brackets on the outboard
ends of the wiper module main member. The lever
arms that extend from the center of the pivot shafts
each have a ball stud on their end. The upper end of
each pivot shaft where the wiper arms will be fas-
tened each has a serrated driver with a keyway. The
lower ends of the pivot shafts are installed through
lubricated bushings in the pivot brackets and are
secured with snap rings.
The wiper module cannot be adjusted or repaired.
If any component of the module is faulty or damaged,
the entire wiper module unit must be replaced.
Fig. 25 Wiper Module
1 - PIVOT BRACKET (2)
2 - TUBE
3 - CLAMP
4 - PIVOT SHAFT (2)
5 - INSULATOR (4)
6 - LINKAGE BUSHING (4)
7 - DRIVE LINK (2)
8 - PIVOT CRANK ARM (2)
9 - PIGTAIL WIRE CONNECTOR
10 - MOTOR CRANK ARM
11 - WIPER MOTOR
8R - 22 WIPERS/WASHERSDR
WIPER HIGH/LOW RELAY (Continued)