Wiper Motor - Front

Remove and replace the front windshield wiper motor assembly on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine, including disconnecting electrical connections and linkage.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Front wiper motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or quality aftermarket equivalent
• Wiper motor mounting gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Wiper motor electrical connector (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery cable
3. Mark wiper blade positions on windshield with tape or marker for reference
4. Remove both wiper arm assemblies by lifting the spring-loaded arm away from windshield and removing retaining nuts at base

Procedure

1. 1

   Access cowl area
   Open hood and remove the cowl screen/vent grille by removing the Phillips screws along the rear edge of the hood opening. The cowl screen on the 1970 Rebel typically has 6-8 screws. Carefully lift the screen away to expose the wiper motor and linkage assembly.
2. 2

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connection
   Locate the wiper motor electrical connector on the motor body. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the motor. If connector is corroded, carefully work it free without damaging the terminals. Note the wire routing for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Disconnect wiper linkage from motor crank arm
   Locate the drive link connecting the wiper motor crank arm to the wiper transmission linkage. Use needle nose pliers to remove the retaining clip from the pivot ball socket connection. Separate the linkage from the motor crank arm. Note the orientation of the crank arm position for reassembly.
4. 4

   Remove wiper motor mounting bolts
   The wiper motor is secured to the firewall/cowl panel with three bolts. Using appropriate socket (typically 7/16" or 1/2"), remove all three mounting bolts. Support the motor as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
5. 5

   Remove wiper motor assembly
   Carefully maneuver the wiper motor out of the cowl area. You may need to rotate or angle the motor to clear the firewall and surrounding components. Remove the old mounting gasket from the firewall if it remains attached.
6. 6

   Prepare mounting surface
   Clean the wiper motor mounting surface on the firewall with a wire brush to remove rust, old gasket material, and debris. Ensure the mounting holes are clear and threads are in good condition. Clean the ground connection point if applicable.
7. 7

   Install new mounting gasket
   Position the new wiper motor mounting gasket on the firewall, aligning the bolt holes and drainage opening. The gasket prevents water intrusion into the passenger compartment.
8. 8

   Position new wiper motor
   Carefully maneuver the new or rebuilt wiper motor into position through the cowl opening. Align the motor mounting holes with the gasket and firewall holes. Ensure the motor crank arm is oriented in the same position as the original (typically in park position).
9. 9

   Install motor mounting bolts
   Thread in all three mounting bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Tighten bolts in a cross pattern to ensure even gasket compression and proper motor alignment. Snug bolts firmly but avoid overtightening which could distort the motor housing.
10. 10

    Reconnect wiper linkage
    Connect the wiper transmission linkage to the motor crank arm pivot ball. Install the retaining clip, ensuring it fully seats in the groove. Verify the linkage moves freely without binding.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connection
    Route the wiper motor wiring harness as originally positioned. Push the electrical connector onto the motor terminals until it clicks into place. Ensure the locking tab is fully engaged and the connection is secure.
12. 12

    Test wiper motor operation
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Turn ignition to accessory position and test wiper motor operation in all switch positions (low, high, and intermittent if equipped). Verify the motor cycles to the correct park position when switched off. Disconnect battery again before continuing.
13. 13

    Reinstall cowl components
    Reinstall the cowl screen/vent grille, securing with all original Phillips screws. Ensure the screen is properly seated and sealed along all edges.
14. 14

    Reinstall wiper arms
    Position wiper arms on their shafts according to your reference marks. The arms should park approximately 1-2 inches above the lower windshield edge. Install retaining nuts and tighten securely. Check that arms are at the same height and properly aligned.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly routed away from moving linkage components
2. Verify cowl screen is fully seated to prevent water leaks into the passenger compartment
3. Double-check wiper arm alignment and tightness to prevent arms from coming loose during operation

Verification

• Reconnect battery and test wipers in all operating modes (low, high, intermittent if equipped)
• Verify wipers park in correct position when turned off
• Check that both wiper blades travel across the windshield in synchronized motion without binding or unusual noise
• Inspect for any water leaks around the cowl area during first rain or car wash
• Ensure wiper arms do not contact the hood or cowl screen at any point in their travel

More procedures for this vehicle