Washer Reservoir

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the windshield washer reservoir on a 1972 Ford F-100 with 302ci V8 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Windshield washer reservoir × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Washer fluid hose (if deteriorated) × 1 — 5/16" ID rubber hose
• Hose clamps (if replacing hose) × 2 — 5/16" to 1/2" worm gear clamps

Fluids

• Windshield washer fluid — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake.
2. Open hood and secure with hood prop.
3. Locate windshield washer reservoir mounted on driver side inner fender panel near firewall.
4. Place drain pan or bucket beneath work area to catch residual washer fluid.

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect washer pump electrical connector
   If the washer pump is electric, locate the electrical connector at the pump motor. Note that many 1972 F-100 washer systems use simple push-on spade terminals rather than a molded locking connector. Pull the connector/terminals straight off. If corroded or stuck, gently work loose with a flathead screwdriver. Verified detail (1972 F-100 washer pumps typically use simple spade or bullet terminals without modern locking tab connectors. Locking tabs are an anachronism for this era.): Locate the electrical connector attached to the washer pump motor at the bottom of the reservoir. Pull the connector straight off the pump terminals. If connector is corroded or stuck, gently work it loose with a flathead screwdriver.
2. 2

   Disconnect washer fluid hose
   Locate the rubber washer fluid hose connected to the pump outlet at the bottom of the reservoir. Use pliers to compress and slide the hose clamp away from the connection point. Twist and pull the hose off the pump outlet. Allow any remaining fluid to drain into the drain pan.
3. 3

   Remove reservoir mounting fasteners
   Remove the fasteners securing the washer reservoir bracket to the inner fender panel (verify exact count and size against the specific vehicle; often retained by sheet-metal screws or a bracket/clip on this vintage). Support the reservoir while removing the last fastener. Support the reservoir with one hand while removing the second bolt to prevent it from falling.
4. 4

   Remove reservoir assembly
   Carefully lift the reservoir assembly up and out of the engine compartment. Tilt the reservoir to drain any remaining washer fluid into the drain pan. Inspect the pump motor and mounting bracket; if reusing the pump, carefully pull it straight out from the rubber grommet in the old reservoir.
5. 5

   Inspect and prepare components
   Inspect the washer pump motor for cracks, corrosion, or damage. Check the rubber grommet seal on the pump for deterioration. Inspect the washer hose for cracks, brittleness, or contamination; replace if necessary. If reusing the pump, install it into the new reservoir by pressing it firmly into the rubber grommet in the bottom opening until fully seated.
6. 6

   Install new reservoir
   Position the new reservoir assembly into the mounting location on the driver side inner fender panel. Align the mounting bracket holes with the threaded holes in the fender. Install the 2 mounting bolts and tighten them securely by hand, then snug with a 7/16" wrench. Do not overtighten, as the reservoir is plastic and can crack.
7. 7

   Reconnect washer fluid hose
   Push the washer fluid hose firmly onto the pump outlet at the bottom of the reservoir. Ensure the hose is seated fully over the barbed fitting. Slide the hose clamp back into position approximately 1/4" from the end of the hose and compress it securely with pliers.
8. 8

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector/spade terminals firmly onto the washer pump motor terminals. Tug gently to verify the connection is secure. Verified detail (Same anachronism as step 1 - 1972 connectors do not have locking tabs that click.): Push the electrical connector firmly onto the washer pump motor terminals until fully seated.
9. 9

   Fill reservoir with washer fluid
   Fill the reservoir with windshield washer fluid through the filler neck until roughly 1 inch below the cap, allowing for expansion (verify actual capacity for this reservoir; period F-100 bag-type reservoirs typically hold about 1 quart or less). Install the reservoir cap and ensure it is seated properly.

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connections are secure and hose clamps are tight.
2. Confirm reservoir mounting bolts are snug but not overtightened.
3. Wipe up any spilled washer fluid from engine compartment and fender surfaces.

Verification

• Turn ignition key to the ON position without starting engine.
• Activate the windshield washer switch and verify fluid sprays onto the windshield from both nozzles.
• Listen for washer pump motor operation; it should run smoothly without grinding or excessive noise.
• Check for leaks at the hose connection, pump seal, and reservoir body while pump is operating.
• Verify reservoir remains securely mounted with no movement or vibration.
• Top off washer fluid if level dropped during testing.

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