Replacing a windshield wiper motor can seem daunting, but with a little patience and the right guidance, it’s a manageable DIY project. This article outlines the process of changing a windshield wiper motor on a 1987 Grady White Seafarer, highlighting the challenges and solutions encountered. This specific project involved replacing a Marinco AFI 34000 wiper motor, which presented a unique wiring situation.
Decoding the Wiring Puzzle
The original Marinco AFI 34000 motor had two wires and a ground, controlling slow speed and the “park” function. The replacement motor, despite having the same model number, featured three wires and a ground. This discrepancy required careful consideration. The solution involved connecting one wire to the slow speed setting on the three-way switch and the second to the powered “park” function for the center setting. The third terminal on the switch, presumably for high speed, remained unused due to the lack of a corresponding wire on the new motor. While the terminals are labeled 1-2-3, believed to correspond to fast-slow-park, further investigation is needed to confirm this.
Removing the Wiper Arms: A Battle Against Corrosion
Removing the wiper arms proved to be the most challenging aspect of the project. Initially, the focus was on identifying the attachment mechanism: a set screw, a center screw under a cover, or a tiny clip. However, after careful inspection and unsuccessful attempts using a windshield wiper removal tool, it became clear that decades of corrosion had fused the arms to the motor shafts.
The corrosion was so severe that the wiper arms crumbled under pressure from vice grips, necessitating the purchase of new arms. This unexpected hurdle turned a seemingly simple 20-minute repair into a day-long endeavor. This underscores the importance of inspecting components for corrosion before beginning any repair work. It also raises the question of whether modern J-style wiper arms and blades could be used as a more readily available replacement for the original ANCO style.
Lessons Learned
This experience highlights the unpredictable nature of boat repairs. While seemingly straightforward tasks can quickly become complex, the satisfaction of completing the job yourself is undeniable. Key takeaways include:
- Double-check wiring diagrams: Even seemingly identical replacement parts can have different wiring configurations.
- Anticipate corrosion: Especially in marine environments, corrosion can significantly complicate repairs. Consider using penetrating oil to loosen components before applying force.
- Have necessary tools on hand: A windshield wiper removal tool can be helpful, but be prepared for alternative removal methods if corrosion is present.
This project, while challenging, provided valuable insights into the nuances of changing a windshield wiper motor. It reinforces the importance of patience, problem-solving, and thorough preparation when tackling DIY boat maintenance. While the specific model of boat and motor discussed here is a 1987 Grady White Seafarer with a Marinco AFI 34000 motor, the general principles and challenges encountered can be applied to various boat models and wiper motor replacements.
