Hi,

I am new to posting on this forum, but wanted to say thanks to everyone who has posted. Your input has been a great resource for fixing things on my ford truck. I really appreciate all the help!

I recently purchased a 1996 Ford F150 Eddie Bauer 4x4 5 speed (4.9l 300 inline 6). I am having 2 issues that I can't seem to diagnose, and was hoping for some input before I go digging into the engine of my truck. I have been searching the forums for info on my questions, and haven't found a post yet that specifically addresses the issues I am having.

Here is what I am trying to figure out:
1. My wipers work on the static settings (fast/slow), but only work on one setting when using the intermittent settings.
2. My windshield wiper jets doesn't squirt out any fluid.

I don't hear the washer pump make noise when I press the button to activate the windshield wiper fluid. I assume that means it is dead or is not getting power. I also do not hear a 'click' sound when I press the same button. Does this mean my relay is bad, and should be replaced before focusing on the washer pump?

I have also read that if the washer pump relay is bad, that could affect the intermittent windshield wiper functionality. Is this true? If it isn't, how do I diagnose the source of my problem with the intermittent setting on my windshield wipers not working?

 

I would suggest looking at the Multi-Function Switch (MFS) first. This is the thing on the column that works the wipers, turn signals, and four-way flashers.

After 18 years, they get dirty and sometimes don't allow things to work. The washer fluid on my '96 Sable wouldn't squirt unless I held it just right. There is a way to take it apart a bit, and clean the contacts, using some WD-40 squirted into the area. Or, the whole switch can be replaced.

 

Thanks, I will look into that and report back if that was the issue.