Wiper Problems...how?

[FireZeus]

It figures that the wiper on the passenger side would still work, but the drivers side has most likely lost the pin on the control arm. Does anyone know how to get to this area in the cowl? It looks like the plastic area separates in the center, but is there a trick? I don't want to go breaking off tabs or clips. Also, is there a kit for this type of wiper repair?

 

[Stephen S]

Not sure how exactly to fix the wiper problem, but I can tell you how to get the cowl open. There is one screw holding the driver's side half of it down. It's right in the center, but it's down below the surface so you can't see it unless you lean all the way over and look right down at it. Just take that screw out and start prying up the cowl with your fingers starting from the center.

 

[FireZeus]

Thanks. Looks like I'll be tearing into ot tomorrow.

 

[Stephen S]

No problem. Good luck and don't forget to post when you find the problem!

 

[FireZeus]

Found the problem...

The motor is crentrally located and from the motor, one arm goes to the drivers side, and one to the passenger side. The assembly at the motor looks like it should hold up well, but where the arms go to the wipers, under the cowl, it is a steel ball and plastic joint type deal that appears to simply snap together. There is a rubber seal that is supposed to keep the water out, but appearently doesn't function well enough. Rust built up on the ball, causing wear on the plastic. It would probably last a lot longer if the arm rested on top of the ball, but it hangs down and gravity helps in the decay of the plastic.

Now comes the fixing part, I won't know if Ford has these plastic joints only, or the whole arm assembly, or the whole damn system including the part that comes through the cowl where the wiper blades attach. I will keep you posted.

 

[Stephen S]

Glad to hear that you found the problem. I hope the fix is as easy as finding the trouble was. Good luck and let us know what happens!

 

[Jason_25]

If Ford doesn't have the exact part you may wanna try a junkyard....

 

[FireZeus]

UPDATE:
Well, I ordered the part to fix the wiper. All I really needed was the plastic bushing, but Ford placed the order and gave me price of $20. Well, what can I do but pay that price for a small flat metal bar and plastic bushing. I picked it up when it came in and he handed me the whole assembly for the drivers side, minus the wiper arm. It came with the arm, bushing, and all the pieces that go through the cowl. I have to say I was very impressed with the price and the ease of fixing this piece is simple. Just thought I would let you guys know.