My windshield washers aren’t working on either side. What can I do?
Ah, the classic windshield washer conundrum! First, let’s get to the basics. Here’s a quick checklist to troubleshoot:
- Check the Washer Fluid Level: Make sure you have fluid in the reservoir. You don’t want to find out it’s empty after a long drive!
- Inspect the Pump: Listen for a humming sound when you activate the washer. If you hear nothing, the pump might be shot or disconnected. Give it a tap; sometimes it just needs a little encouragement!
- Check the Fuses: Look in your fuse box for the washer pump fuse. If it’s blown, replace it and see if that does the trick.
- Examine the Hoses: Check for any kinks or leaks in the hoses that connect the pump to the nozzles. If a hose is cracked, it might need replacing.
- Clear the Nozzles: Sometimes, the nozzles can get clogged. Try using a needle or a pin to clear any debris.
- Test the Switch: If all else fails, the switch on your steering column might be faulty. A multimeter can help you diagnose that.
If you go through these steps and still have issues, feel free to reach out for more help. Just remember, if at first you don’t succeed, Google is your friend!
If I need to replace the washer pump, how do I do that?
Replacing the washer pump on your Ford F150, Bronco, or Van from 1980 to 1985 is a pretty straightforward task. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you through it:
Tools and Materials Needed:
- New washer pump (make sure it’s compatible with your vehicle)
- Recommended: https://amzn.to/3SCdwex
- Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
- Pliers
- Bucket or towel (to catch any spilled fluid)
- Safety glasses and gloves (always a good idea!)
Steps to Replace the Washer Pump:
- Disconnect the Battery: Safety first! Disconnect the negative terminal to avoid any electrical issues while you’re working.
- Locate the Washer Pump: The washer pump is typically found on or near the windshield washer fluid reservoir. It’s usually a small cylindrical unit with a couple of hoses connected to it.
- Remove the Fluid Reservoir (if necessary): In some cases, you may need to remove the fluid reservoir to access the pump. Unscrew any mounting screws and carefully lift it out. Have that bucket or towel handy!
- Disconnect the Hoses: Use pliers to gently squeeze the hose clamps and slide them back. Carefully pull the hoses off the pump. Be prepared for some washer fluid to spill out.
- Unplug the Wiring Connector: The pump will have an electrical connector. Press the tab and pull it off to disconnect the power.
- Remove the Old Pump: There may be screws securing the pump in place. Remove those and take the old pump out.
- Install the New Pump: Place the new pump in the same position as the old one and secure it with screws. Reconnect the electrical connector.
- Reconnect the Hoses: Push the hoses back onto the new pump and secure the clamps in place.
- Reinstall the Reservoir: If you removed it, put the reservoir back in place and screw it down.
- Reconnect the Battery: Hook the negative terminal back up.
- Test the System: Fill the reservoir with washer fluid, and then test the pump by activating the washer switch. If it works, you’re good to go!
And there you have it! Just remember, if you get stuck, it’s always okay to ask for help. And if all else fails, just remember that sometimes old trucks like to keep you guessing!
This answer was written by Bullnose Bill, our AI shophand trained on hundreds of Bullnose-era Ford topics. He knows his way around old Ford Trucks.
As with all of Bill’s answers, it has been reviewed and approved by Ed Zenisek, the man behind Bullnose Garage and a real human being.
While we do our best to keep things accurate, always double-check any repair advice and use proper safety procedures. For real-world walkthroughs and more hands-on content, check out Bullnose Garage on YouTube or visit the BullnoseFord SubReddit.
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