got some WIPER MOTOR blues - -

[lurtch]

Hello All,

I am seeking info on w113 wiper motor failures.

Does anyone have some data on the failure rate of the windshield wiper motor? Should a dry climate 1966 230SL need a replacement unit?

This car was in Houston,Texas until 2004 and then SF Bay Area

Assuming the wiring harness is OK ,  what is a typical failure mode?

What causes frequent  blown fuses? - -  armature winding insulation failure? - -   seized linkages?

excessive blade to  glass striction?

bad pivot bearings?

Is  the used one on eBay right now priced appropriately at  $ 175.00 ?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&_trksid=p3907.m32&_trkparms=tab%3DWatching&item=260336391270&viewitem=#ht_500wt_1542

Any input appreciated - -  Thanks,   Larry in CA

[al_lieffring]

The most common failure is for the wiper shafts to freeze up where they go through the body.
Remove the linkage from the motor (behind the glove box) then switch on the motor and see if it turns.

[hands_aus]

Hey Larry,
Are you sure it is the wiper motor causing the fuse to blow? The horns are on the same fuse.

I suggest you unplug it and see if the fuse keeps blowing.