windshield washer ain't spraying...

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Nov 26, 2012 | 04:16 PM

The Oldtimer

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Joined: Apr 2006

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From: Escondido, Ca

windshield washer ain't spraying...

(04 FX4)...Anyone ever have any issues with your windshield washer? The next to last time I used it, I got a dribble, so I figured that I needed fluid...added more fluid, but it was still half full, I pressed the button, I heard noise, probably the pump. but no fluid. Could it be something as simple as a clog? I could tear it apart, but if someone has gone through this, I could use a few suggestions.

Thanks in advance

Nov 26, 2012 | 04:22 PM

BillC

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From: North Richland Hills, TX

If your pump is running the hoses are probably clogged.

Nov 26, 2012 | 04:56 PM

danorules

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From: manchester,ct

X2 likely clogged. I haven't done it to my current truck, but with other vehicles I was able to unscrew the nozzles and then I hit the spray button for a bit. That flushed the system. Then before reapplying the nozzles I blew them out with an air gun. Worked every time.
If the nozzles don't unscrew I would disconnect the hoses at the wiper arm and try the same thing as above. Good luck

Nov 27, 2012 | 07:06 AM

MCDavis

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Joined: Sep 2010

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From: RVA

I had this problem. Nozzles were clogged and they would not unclog no matter what cleaning I tried...compressed air...alcohol bath...etc.
I picked up new nozzles from the dealer for about $18. Let me see if I can find that thread of mine.

EDIT:
Found that thread from last year. Here's my post detailing how to get the nozzles out:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post11298963

Nov 28, 2012 | 02:27 PM

BlueOvalFitter

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From: Cajun Country

Have someone operate the spray button as you use a needle to clean the nozzles.

Nov 29, 2012 | 05:18 PM

rander101

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Joined: Mar 2002

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From: Virginia

Check the hoses and lines from the pump to the nozzles. Sometimes they pop off. If that's the problem you can usually see fluid leaking somerwhere while someone is operating the washer.

Dec 3, 2012 | 06:44 PM

ketchup

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Joined: Dec 2005

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That gasket ford uses on the pump/washer tank falls to pieces, and then plugs the lines. I had to blow the lines out after changing the gasket.

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Dec 5, 2012 | 10:14 PM

BlueOvalFitter

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From: Cajun Country

Quote:

Originally Posted by papasmurf40

I'm a 30 year exp. pipefitter/welder. I used to use torch tip cleaners very rarely.The only time I used them a lot was after a person that didn't know how to use a torch. I tried tip cleaners to clear the washer jets but I found a needle works much better due to its tapered point. A tip cleaner is flat on the end.

Dec 5, 2012 | 10:20 PM

#10

papasmurf40

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Joined: May 2011

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From: Brantford

I've used them on the old truck, 92 f250 scab....just had to use the smaller ones and they can sometimes be used if something is stuck in there too because its a file.....just sayin

Dec 5, 2012 | 10:31 PM

#11

BlueOvalFitter

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From: Cajun Country

Quote:

Originally Posted by papasmurf40

I've used them on the old truck, 92 f250 scab....just had to use the smaller ones and they can sometimes be used if something is stuck in there too because its a file.....just sayin

For those that don't want to buy a tip cleaner ($4 or more) just for a one time use can buy a pack of assorted needles for about .79 (WM). I have about 15-20 tip cleaners in my shed gathering dust!

Dec 8, 2012 | 06:52 PM

#12

Coondawg

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Joined: Jan 2003

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From: Saraland AL

I had the same issue ketchup had. The seal just deteriorated into tiny pieces and clogged the nozzles. It also leaked all the fluid out of the reservoir. I replaced the washer pump & seal and found some nozzles at the local wrecking yard for $5/pr.