Front wiper/washer question

[laneo9417]

First off - this forum is great a great resource. I recently purchased a '98 Explorer as my second/winter vehicle and I have fixed many small things on it that I have researched and learned on this site. Now to my question:

I am having a minor issue with my front wipers and washer. The wipers always turn on no problem, but when I turn them up to a shorter intermittent delay and/or the low/high settings they become inconsistent...for example on the lowest intermittent level they might wipe twice in a row, pause, wipe once, pause longer, wipe twice, etc (you get the idea). The washer is inconsistent too - when I push in the multifunction switch sometimes the fluid comes out, other times it doesnt. If fluid doesnt come out right away I will push the switch a few times and it will eventually work. This has been the case since day 1 that I've owned the truck and hasnt bothered me until now with the snow and salt dirtying my windshield....

So I have done some research and I am thinking that maybe the multifunction switch is to blame? I havent taken a look at it yet or swapped it out but I wanted to see if I could get some more direct input here first. Has anyone else experienced these issues? Is it most likely the MFS or is it something more like a wiper motor or washer pump? Any and all help is appreciated

 

[albi1cnobi1]

It is most likely the multifunction switch, they are a common problem. As for the washer fluid, does the rear washer work? If so does it work consistently? The reason I ask is that the 98-01 use 1 pump for both the front and rear washers. If the rear works then that pretty much tells you the mf switch is beat.

 

[96eb96]

yeah, I have similar issues. Over time the switch contacts wear out/oxidize and cause little issues like that. If you strike the washer switch straight on with some authority it usually helps.

 

[laneo9417]

It is most likely the multifunction switch, they are a common problem. As for the washer fluid, does the rear washer work? If so does it work consistently? The reason I ask is that the 98-01 use 1 pump for both the front and rear washers. If the rear works then that pretty much tells you the mf switch is beat.

The rear washer works fine, so I guess ill try a new switch. Does anyone know the part # for a 98? I found one for a 99 but I dont think its the same