Remove and replace the windshield washer pump on a 1966 Chevrolet Corvette, including electrical connections and hose routing.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Windshield washer pump × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Washer pump grommet × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Windshield Washer Fluid — 3.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Gather tools and replacement parts
3. Place drain pan or bucket under front driver side area to catch washer fluid

Procedure

1. 1

   Access washer reservoir area
   The washer reservoir bag and pump are located behind the front bumper on the driver side. Access is gained from underneath the vehicle. You may need to work from below or reach up from the wheel well area.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   The 1966 Corvette uses a vacuum-operated windshield washer system driven off the wiper motor assembly, not a standalone electric pump. There are no electrical wire leads at the washer pump. Identify the vacuum/fluid lines connected to the washer mechanism instead.
3. 3

   Disconnect washer hose
   Using needle-nose pliers, slide the hose clamp back away from the pump outlet fitting. Carefully pull the washer hose off the pump outlet. Allow remaining washer fluid to drain into the drain pan. If the hose is stuck, carefully twist while pulling.
4. 4

   Remove pump from reservoir
   The washer pump is mounted into the washer reservoir bag with a rubber grommet. Grasp the pump body firmly and twist counterclockwise while pulling outward to extract it from the grommet. The pump should pull free from the reservoir bag once the grommet releases.
5. 5

   Inspect and clean mounting area
   Examine the rubber grommet in the reservoir bag opening. If cracked, deteriorated, or damaged, replace it with a new grommet. Clean any debris or old fluid residue from around the mounting hole with shop towels.
6. 6

   Install new pump into reservoir
   Insert the new pump inlet into the grommet at the reservoir bag opening. Push firmly while twisting clockwise to fully seat the pump into the grommet. Ensure the pump is seated flush and secure in the grommet to prevent leaks.
7. 7

   Connect washer hose
   Push the washer hose firmly onto the pump outlet fitting until it bottoms out. Slide the hose clamp forward over the connection point using needle-nose pliers. Ensure the hose is fully seated on the fitting to prevent air leaks.
8. 8

   Connect electrical leads
   Reconnect the electrical connector to the washer pump terminals, matching the wire colors noted during disassembly. Ensure the connection is secure and wires are not pinched or stretched.
9. 9

   Refill washer reservoir
   Fill the washer reservoir bag with windshield washer fluid until fluid is visible near the top of the bag. Verify the correct reservoir capacity against factory documentation before filling.
10. 10

    Test pump operation
    Activate the washer switch and verify fluid sprays from the nozzles onto the windshield. Check for leaks at the pump grommet seal and hose connection. If the washer does not operate, verify the vacuum lines and washer mechanism are properly connected and the wiper/washer assembly is functioning.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all hose connections are secure and hose clamps are properly positioned
2. Verify washer fluid level is at proper capacity
3. Check that pump electrical connector is fully seated and wires are routed clear of moving parts

Verification

• Activate washer system and confirm strong, steady spray pattern at windshield nozzles
• Inspect pump mounting area and hose connections for any fluid leaks
• Verify pump runs smoothly without unusual noise or vibration
• Check that pump shuts off immediately when washer switch is released

More procedures for this vehicle