1970 GS Windshield Washer issue

Discussion in 'Wrenchin' Secrets' started by chiefsb30, Aug 26, 2018.

  1. chiefsb30

    chiefsb30 Gold Level Contributor

    So, looking towards having my GS inspected in PA. Unfortunately, one thing I am looking at that won't cut it is the windshield washer. The wipers work. When you press the button for "washer" it activates the wipers and they go until you switch them back off, so that leads me to believe the switch isn't the issue.

    The hoses appear to be in decent shape, squirters are a little rusted but appear good, and there is certainly fluid in the reservoir. Sounds to me this is a washer pump issue. Thoughts?
     

    Attached Files:

  2. gstewart

    gstewart Well-Known Member

    The pump is probably needs a rebuild.
     
  3. DasRottweiler

    DasRottweiler -BuickAddict-

    Last edited: Aug 26, 2018
  4. chiefsb30

    chiefsb30 Gold Level Contributor

    Trying to understand how this guy works without tearing it apart right now (car isnt in front of me.) The washer pump is electric, and separate from the wiper pump, though they are mounted together. The wiper pump spins when it goes, and I can hear and see that motor going. But I dont hear any actual clicking.

    I did one on a Chevelle some time ago. But I simply replaced the entire unit because the wipers were questionable in their operation. If its a rebuild, I can see how this would go together and that doesnt sound hard.
     
  5. mrolds69

    mrolds69 "The Cure"

    Looking at the pic, you can see somebody already tried to "fix" it, because the part with the valves is black, not white. And...while they sell it, they really break. I don't agree with Jim, I've rarely seen that part stop the washers from working. I think you have 3 options, another used motor with a working pump, a new factory type pump, a new aftermarket mount on the inner fender or firewall pump. Naturally, you would check the nozzles by blowing through the hoses, you would check the filter at the hose in the reservoir. You would listen for the sound like Jim mentioned.
     
  6. chiefsb30

    chiefsb30 Gold Level Contributor

    Yeah, that's a possibility. Essentially this would work, correct?

    https://www.opgi.com/skylark/CH26136/

    It might technically be overkill I suppose, but it basically assures the issue is solved in one shot. Additionally, these are all the same across A bodies right? Something labelled for a Chevelle would work, right?
     
  7. mrolds69

    mrolds69 "The Cure"

    Right, pretty much the same across 68-72 GM A bodies. Assuming it's not the switch, that should work. There are cheaper ones with a black pump, but white is more correct.
     
    chiefsb30 likes this.
  8. gstewart

    gstewart Well-Known Member

    I had problems with the wiper motor + pump. Instead of rebuilding the washer pump & motor, I purchased a complete new unit, 10 years ago, from a chev guy on ebay. cost me $105 usd.
     
  9. BuickV8Mike

    BuickV8Mike SD Buick Fan

    The price to rebuild is $250.
     
  10. BIG FRANK JOHNSON

    BIG FRANK JOHNSON Well-Known Member

    Don't pay do it yourself. Cheap. The pump (new) can be hard to get. Check eBay. Frank
     
  11. chiefsb30

    chiefsb30 Gold Level Contributor

    Eh, paying to rebuild the whole thing isnt really an option at this point. The car needs inspected with a quickness, and I have a very small window to be able to do it. I live away from my car 5 days a week right now.

    Its a fairly original car but I am not THAT particular about original. I'll probably slap an OPG or one of the cheaper ones on there for now. At some point the engine bay needs some detail/the original intake slapped back on/the brake booster replaced. At that time I may get particular.
     
  12. 1973gs

    1973gs Well-Known Member

    Go buy a universal pump for $10 to $15. Install it temporarily to pass your inspection. Diagnose and repair it correctly when you have the time. You should be able to remove the wire from the connector without damaging it so you won't have to repair any wires later.
     
    DasRottweiler likes this.
  13. yachtsmanbill

    yachtsmanbill Well-Known Member

    Just an example:

    https://www.napaonline.com/en/p/BK_6651616

    If youre not hearing the click from the solenoid to engage the pump, take the 4 screws outta the nozzle block and make sure the piston is going up and down. Personally, if that works, I'd do a valve replacement kit for $5.00. ws
     
  14. Dr. Roger

    Dr. Roger Stock enthusiast

    I'm a little late on this post...sorry. I pulled my hair out for a long time trying to figure out exactly how these pumps work. The following video is excellent on operation and rebuilding of these washer pumps.
     

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