VS Wiper Speed Problem

[LJS]

I've had a look at past threads on this, but didn't find the answers I was hoping for. The problem is that the wiper motor high speed isn't much faster than the intermittent and low speeds. There is a slight increase in speed on high, but it sure ain't much and the wipers just can't keep up when it's raining heavily.

I've had the motor and rack out and the main pivot bush that connects the the short linkage from the rack to the motor isn't as free as all of the others, but is not binding, just dragging a little compared to the others. Still, I'm thinking even a little slugishness at that point could be enough to slow the motor down. As there's a small difference between high and low speeds I've ruled out the wiper motor relay. The engine cranks OK, and my lights are at full brightness, so I've ruled out any alternator problem. I've checked the positive connection on the back of the alterantor from the battery and it's in good nick. The wiper motor works fine, and with the wiper arms off, the wiper motor revs definitely pick up when I flick the stalk from low to high. It seems to keep coming back to that rack bush being a little sluggish.

Here's the catch. Holden says the rack is no longer available, and I don't really want to get one from a wrecker.

So, does anyone out there know if a later model wiper rack, or complete motor and rack assembly will fit a VS? I've tried Rare Spares, and a few like them, but so far I've had no luck trying to find a new aftermarket VS wiper rack. If anyone knows where I can find one I'd appreciate knowing about it. If anyone thinks I should be looking at another cause for the problem I'd be happy to get any advice. Thanks.

[hako]

You have probably done this already but my first thought would be to lubricate it.

[speed_freak]

i got the same problem on my car. maybe there just shit slow to begin with. is becoming highly unsafe to drive in heavy rain

[LJS]

You have probably done this already but my first thought would be to lubricate it.

Thanks for the responses. Yeah, I cleaned the rack arm bushes as best I could and lubed them with graphite spray. They're sealed units, and not meant to be serviceable, so I'm not game to pull them apart for fear of stuffing up the whole rack assembly. Looks like I might have to try my luck at the wreckers.

Speed Freak, I've seen similar comments to yours in older posts when I was checking them out before posting myself. But I'm sure the high speed used to be OK then became only marginally faster than the slow speed. If I get a result from another rack, or from checking the whole system with a multimeter from the switch through the cable connection to the motor I'll post it on this thread. It's just not good enough when its heavy rain.

I've looked all over, but haven't found anything about fitting later model wiper motor and rack complete assemblies into a VR-VS. Not only would the mounting brackets have to be close enough to fit or modify, but the switching and throw of the wiper arms would need to suit as well.

[hako]

Just out of interest I checked the speed of my wipers on low and high - in rain - switched to accessories.
low speed = 7 return sweeps in 10 seconds
high speed = 9 return sweeps in 10 seconds.
I have no troubles driving in rain.