windshield wiper/washer issue

[Larry Rees]

I have a 64 Cadillac Deville convertible. When the wiper switch is turned on the washer pump activates continuosly no mater what speed is selected. Washer pump shuts off when wiper switch shut off. Ideas where to start the search or common problems with this? Larry

[Dennis P. DiBari]

Hi Larry,

     The good news is that your washer pump is working; that's usually the problem.  The continuous running with the wipers on could be the washer switch itself.  Make sure to check the wires from the switch to the washer pump itself through the firewall (that nothing is split - sending juice to the pump).  Also, check that the copper ground strap from the washer motor to the washer pump us good and not broken with age.  Mine was and replaced it along with a rebuild of the washer pump.  Hope this helps.

Dennis DiBari, Cottekill, NY

[Larry Rees]

Thanks Dennis for the information. Would you have a picture of the copper ground strap placement that runs from the washer motor to washer pump? Also any pictures of the colored wire connectors  going into the motor and pump so i can make sure they are plugged in the right way? Larry

[Dennis P. DiBari]

Hi Larry,

     Please send me your email address and I will take some pictures of the ground strap and any wiring to the windshield washer pump, etc.  I'll take some pictures with my wife's iphone and scan and email them to your email.  My email address is [e-mail].  It would be my pleasure.

Dennis DiBari, Cottekill NY

[Jason Edge]

Larry,  The wiring terminal configuration is in your 1964 Cadillac Shop Manual on page 12-60, Fig 12-83.  See inserted pictures below of that illustration, a picture of my 64 wiper assembly, an illustration with ground strap then a picture pointing to the ground strap for a 64 Cadillac.  Note that it attaches via that lower mounting screw at the firewall.  Also note that the 63 ground strap location is in a different location. 

[Russ Austin]

I suspect that the push button is stuck or the ground wire is shorted. The pump has constant power, but it is the ground connection that activates the pump. Pushing the button in connects the ground.

[Larry Rees]

Thanks Russ for the information. Where do i look for the ground connection at the switch shown in the manual? Does it just ground when switch installed to the metal or is there a connection which i can see? You were right about the switch sticking. Mine was not moving very well but is now after a clean and lube.

[Russ Austin]

Larry, the wiper switch is self grounding by the 2 mount pins. Glad to hear you got it working again. 

[Larry Rees]

Got switch working better but still same problem happening. Checking continuity on the wires now.

[Larry Rees]

And whether the connectors are plugged in the right way at pump/ motor. Do you have a pic of connector orientation