Rear and Front Screen Wash

AWG · Unread post by **AWG** » 05 Apr 2004, 14:32

I've just watched a gallon of water disappear into the bowels of the engine compartment when I refilled my wash bottle. Now when I wash/wipe the rear screen the front screen washers fire at about half pressure. The front washers are fine when used normally. I can't get my hand, let alone anything useful, near. Any clues as to what's going on or have I just overfilled it? If so why?

Robin · Unread post by **Robin** » 05 Apr 2004, 16:12

Anthony, the two systems each have their own pump. It is possible that there is a lot of debris down there now and the pumps are feeding off each other via wet debris from the overfill but this is a long shot. Let the system dry out and see if it changes.
They are also controlled by a combined relay unit but I would not even contemplate that route just yet.
Fingers crossed[:)]
Robin

Unread post by **RichardW** » 05 Apr 2004, 17:03

>the two systems each have their own pump
Not on the Xantia - one pump, two outlets - runs one way for front, t'other for rear (ah, more igenious French design!). Sounds like something has come adrfit inside the pump and it is not sealing up the front as it should. Might be possible to repair, otherwise new one required - only about a tenner from GSF IIRC. Should be possible to change it without having to drop the washer tank out.

rabenson · Unread post by **rabenson** » 05 Apr 2004, 17:38

Similar thing happens on my ZX - when I wash the front window, I always get a dribble running down the back screen.....
Ron

JohnCKL · Unread post by **JohnCKL** » 05 Apr 2004, 18:17

Check hoses to washer, might be crushed under bonnet when bonnet closes. Watch for crimped hoses when bonnet opens. Otherwise debris stuck in washer outlet may be loosened with a needle or pin.

Robin · Unread post by **Robin** » 05 Apr 2004, 20:38

Richard, if one pump what selects the front or rear wash please. Damned clever these French. It may just explain why my rear is and always has been since new just a big dribble! Robin

Stuart McB · Unread post by **Stuart McB** » 06 Apr 2004, 00:00

Have the same on my ZX. When I squirt the rear a smiggen of water comes on the the front wind screen. Just don't worry.

reblack68 · Unread post by **reblack68** » 06 Apr 2004, 04:37

It's actually very simple. The polarity is reversed for the rear wash, causing the pump to spin the other way. I'm not sure if there are 2 sets of vanes or what but that's basically how it works. I haven't seen it on a Citroen but my last two (and they will be my last two) Fords had the same arrangement.
When replacing the pump be VERY careful not to push the rubber seal into the tank, I did and I ended up having to remove the tank to retrieve the seal. It was particularly galling because the fault turned out to be a kink in the hose.

AWG · Unread post by **AWG** » 06 Apr 2004, 14:58

Thanks to all - looks like Saturday morning is going to be inside the bonnet rather than on the river.
NOW - when I use the rear screen wash the front goes at full power BEFORE the back even washes! It might be because I actually ran out of water - didn't keep using it again until it was refilled tho'.