Windshield Wiper Failure

[ted280sl]

My windshield wipers stopped working while in use the other day. It seems that the motor is not operating. I tested for electricity at the motor and there is none. I checked the fuses and they all seem fine. When I engage the windshield wiper switch I can hear a clicking from a relay under the hood. My windshield washer motor seems to be operating properly. My guess is that I need a new relay but, failing to find anything on our website that directly addresses this I am looking for feedback before ordering the part.
Thank you,
Ted
1969 280SL

[andyburns]

Ted, sounds as if you have diagnosed it correctly.  I would just go that extra step and test the output of the relay, at the relay, with a trouble lamp or meter.  Eliminate the unlikely event that you have a connection block or cable issue.  Am sure you will be right though.  Pretty easy fix to replace the relay.

[ted280sl]

I replaced the relay but, I am getting the same clicking sound from the new relay. No fuses appear to be blown and no power is reaching the wiper motor. Any additional suggestions would be helpful.
Thanks,
Ted

[ejboyd5]

Test the new relay as well.  These days it is not uncommon for out of the box parts to be faulty.  Most frustrating, but something we must live with.

[Paul & Dolly]

Have you checked the functions of the Switch in Hi/Lo, first at the relay connections, and then at the under dash cable connector.

Good luck

Paul

[al_lieffring]

Check both sides of the fuse with a test light, they can look OK but not be making contact at the ends.

[ted280sl]

It is not unusual for these cars to find that the solution is one you should have thought about first. It seems that some wires under the dash became entangled with the windshield wiper movements inside the dash. I removed the glove compartment and immediately saw the problem. I untangled the wires from the mechanism and everything is working properly. Thank you for the expert advice.
Ted 280sl w/ working wipers!