Windshield Washer System - Drips/Dribbles

CHEVROLET NUMBER: 87-T-63

SECTION: 8D - Windshield Wiper/Washer System

DATE: February, 1987

SUBJECT: WINDSHIELD WASHER SYSTEM DRIPS/DRIBBLES

MODELS: 1985-86 C/K AND 1987 R/V

On 1985-86 C/K and 1987 R/V models, the windshield wiper/washer system utilizes a "wet arm" design. The advantage of the wet arm system is the accurate and complete spray pattern on the windshield provided by the nozzles.

Figure No.1 - Inline Check Valve Location:

A component part of the washer system is an inline check valve mounted to the reservoir assembly (See Figure No. 1). The function of the check valve is to keep the hoses between the reservoir and the nozzles full of fluid. Without the check valve, the fluid in the system hoses could drain back to the bottle causing a slight delay in fluid delivery to the windshield.

An unintended effect of the check valve has been washer fluid "dribbling" from the nozzles when making a left turn. The amount of dribble varies

from truck to truck, with some vehicles being very noticeable.

Figure No.1 - Inline Check Valve Location:

To repair this condition, remove the two screws attaching the washer fluid reservoir to the fender. On the back of the reservoir, remove the check valve and short section of hose connecting this valve to the windshield washer motor (See Figure No. 1). Reconnect the main washer hose to the washer motor and reattach the reservoir to the fender.

With the removal of the check valve, a short delay in the delivery of washer fluid to the windshield will be experienced. This delay generally lasts until the wiper blade is 3/4 of the way up the windshield on the first pass.