Windshield Wiper Motor Outage?

[DenverReds]

Is there an easy way to test why my fat starboard side windshield wiper isn’t working? The three others are working. I’m happy to just order a new motor if that tends to be the general solution. If each of the 4 windshield wiper motors are on a different fuse maybe one fuse is out? Thanks

 

[GaylesFaerie]

On my 2012 R27, each wiper is on a separate rocker switch, with each switch having a pop out fuse above it under a black rubber bubble. Try depressing that bubble to see if the fuse popped. If it did pop out, you'll still need to figure out why. You may need to pull the switch panel and check the blade connections on the back. You might also access the motor and see if it is getting 12V with a volt meter first. Others will have more experience and sage advice. G

 

[knotflying]

If you suspect the switch you can always swap the wires to the adjacent switch and see what happens. Checking power at the unit, as mentioned, requires removing the motor to access the wires and they have little slack, but that is your next checkpoint. As an aside, check the fuse for the return circuit. It should be in the fuse block behind the helm. Some tugs had the wrong fuse at 20 amps. I seem to remember it should be 5 amps. The large fuse can cause the motor to burn out in the event of a jamb. If the motor jambs and you think you are okay by turning off the switch, you are not. Power will still go to the motor so that it returns into the up position. There is a lobe and contact that when up it disconnects the constant power. If the arm cannot return to the up position and there is a jamb, the motor will burn out.

 

[S. Todd]

We had a wiper motor on one of the four windows on our R25SC get weak and slow so I replaced it before it died completely. Replacement was not that difficult if you need to go that route. If I recall correctly, the exact replacement wiper motor came from West Marine.

 

[TMAX31]

Check to make sure your getting good power to the switch. I had a similar problem recently and found a bad crimp. I replaced the connector and everything works good now.

 

[knotflying]

The hardest part of replacing the wiper motor could be removing the wiper arm. A small battery terminal remover will make life easier. Remove the plastic cover over the knuckle. Don't worry if it breaks because you should remove all of them. There is a set screw, usually on top of the knuckle. I would remove it and spray some PB blaster on the hole and up behind the knuckle and let to set overnight. The next day you may be able to wiggle the arm off using a pair of channel locks or the battery terminal remover. You may have to modify it to fit into the center hole. I say to remove the plastic covers because they tend to add to the salt buildup and diminished wiper capacity. When reinstalling the arm put anti-seize on the shaft. This will save heartache in the future. As a periodic maintenance item I would remove, clean and service the wiper arm.