Need Help...weak windshield wipers

[SeatownE30]

Hi R3V!

I need your help. I've searched the forum and found nothing regarding weak windshield wiper strength.

As mentioned, the wipers are pretty weak right now, they don’t always reset to the bottom of the windshield especially when it isn’t raining heavily. When it is raining heavily, the wipers tend to overshoot the bottom of the windshield hitting (and going past) the rubber seal. It typically sits at a 20-25 degree angle from the base.

Is it the wiper motor going out or something else less expensive? Has anyone experienced this problem before?

Thanks in advance!

[wodcutr]

A new used motor may be in order here. They can get weak over time. Try putting a little rainx on the windshield and some new wiper blades to see if that eases the friction a bit! I should have a good motor if you decide to go that route.

[Swanny]

I've had to change 2 wiper units. Huge PITA for me as I just couldn't find the right way to rotate the assembly to get it out...any pointers?

[vpilarrt]

Swanny - remove the motor first then the assembly.

[SeatownE30]

Thanks for the tips guys. I may have to source a new used motor to get this fixed.

wodcutr - How much for the motor? I'll keep you posted if i need the part.

[immajackuup]

buy motor to save you the trouble later.

[jeffnhiscars]

While you are in there...and even if you aren't...you should replace the "damper ring" which is #14 in the diagram. I've replaced these on 3 cars and in each case they crumbled before I could remove them so I had to pick out the pieces.

They keep your wiper from wobbling which will absolutely shorten the motor life. The trick is to remove the "ring" # 13 first and replace it after the new damper is in place. They are cheap, a bit finicky and you can do both sides in under 30 min.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=1423&mospid=47322&btnr=61_0885&hg=61&fg=45

[nrubenstein]

Getting the motor out is pretty easy if you use a stubby ratcheting wrench. A few minutes work if you dont have to pull an M50 manifold that comprehensively blocks access. Getting the wiper transmission out is a gigantic pain in the ass, so don't do it unless you really, really have to.

Edit: MAKE SURE THE WIPERS PARK CORRECTLY BEFORE YOU BUTTON THINGS UP. YES, I FOUND THAT OUT THE HARD WAY.

[SeatownE30]

What a wealth of information. Thanks Jeffnhiscars and nrubenstein!

[Kershaw]

Edit: MAKE SURE THE WIPERS PARK CORRECTLY BEFORE YOU BUTTON THINGS UP. YES, I FOUND THAT OUT THE HARD WAY.

qft.

my last e30s wiper park position was off an inch because of this. :nice: