vitesse mk2 washer pump prob

[trigolf]

Hi,

 

I'm not sure which section to post this in,so have posted it here.

 

My Vitesse is now due an MOT and whilst checking all the obvious things prior, I found that the washers weren't working. I have checked the whole system over as follows:

1. Checked that non return valve in washer bottle pick up pipe not seized.

2. Cleaned out all pipework and washer jets - they we're a bit gungy

3. Disconnected pump and blown through the pipework with a foot pump  - it's clear all the way to the jets

4. Dismantled pump - removed wiper switch part and checked pump diaphragm - it all looks intact - no holes or splits.

 

After all the above checks - it still refuses to work ,so am a bit baffled. Has anyone got any suggestions what might be faulty ?

 

I know people fit electric pumps as a replacement, but that normally requires the fitting of a different switch, more holes in the dash etc - and I would prefer to keep the original system if possible. I have a vague memory of reading of a club member who managed to retain the original switch and modify it to convert to an electric pump/ wiper operation. Does anyone remember when it was featured in the Courier ? - which year would narrow it down a bit. 

 

Gavin

[Pete Lewis]

There used to be a lucas switch , bell push type that screwed in to replace the bellows, but i have never found one available nowadays

 

it was used across the trade in the 70s , on many makes , but a bit rare now

 

pete

[Gary Flinn]

I don't believe the Original Pumps are repairable, as far as I know Repro ones aren't available either  

 

A good secondhand one if you want to stay original is the way to go, IF you

can find one that is?  

[AidanT]

It needed fettling for ot to fit mine but

 

http://www.rimmerbros.co.uk/Item--i-GWW102

[Casper]

# 155496 Switch, twin speed and electric pump, as fitted to (some) late Spit/GT6, some Dolomites, etc.  I believe there were different versions of the same item.  http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTIwMFgxNjAw/z/fFcAAOSwbPxXP1QO/$_1.JPG

 

NLA at Canleys.  Geoff at Wins lists for Dolomite at £80 or £30 good used, but you would need to check it is electric wash.  http://www.winsintltd.co.uk/electrical4.html

 

A little ingenuity and a push to make switch  should convert your old switch.  Done it a few times, but most recently with the early, under-dash type of pumps. 

 

i think this is the switch that have used most often:

http://www.vehicle-wiring-products.eu/product.php/718/plastic-starter-switch-with-rubber-cover :

 

If it has aluminium capsule, then here's how: Un-swage the base plate.  Replace with plate drilled to take switch, together with some form of spring and guide for pushrod (I use a cut down lid from a plastic bottle the right size, and the bulb reversed as a spring.  Reswage.  Wire up.

If the capsule is plastic, I've not done it.  I often buy used switches at Autojumbles so I can convert as required when my son's buy a new car !

 

C

[trigolf]

Gents, Thanks very much for all your advice/help. Obviously good used ones are made from unobtanium! I think I'll have a go at modding the existing pump and fit a switch inside - as suggested - and convert to an electric pump. 

[Casper]

Let us know how you get on.  Take some pics as you go, and post on here.  Something I ought to have done.

 

C.