Earth problems

[zippy500]

Seem to have earthing problems.

If I have the fan motor running, then try to turn on the wipers on the fan cuts out and the wipers work.

Both seem to work on their own, but not on togther.

I know I dont need them at the moment but would like to sort it out before the cold sets in (next week??).

where you i start looking.

Cheers

[Willie]

Nice one. Does this happen with the engine running or only when it is off? If it happens in the off position does the oil pressure warning light also extinguish along with the fan motor? First stop, check the earth for the
wiper switch which is on terminal 'E' on the CONTROL BOX. This earth is made
on the bulkhead in the engine compartment. Just to the right of the fuse
block you will see the vertical wiring loom, about seven inches down this loom
you fill find the black wire which is the earth for terminal E hidden behind it.
This is clamped under a bolt and is very often corroded and making a bad
contact. Have a look.

[Packedup]

I've seen corroded fuse box contacts cause very strange behaviour in the past, so as well as the good advice on checking the earth it might be an idea to make sure the fuses, contacts and fusebox spades aere all in good condition.

[RogerRust]

Just a thought - Is this a new problem or has it always behaved like this?

If its a new problem then its probably the earth.

If it has always done it then it could be the wiring - the wipers are supplied with permanent power when the ign is on and are earthed through the switch to make them work. The fan, I think, is the other way around. It would be worth having a good look at the connections with a meter or a bulb on a length of wire to ensure they are the right way round.

[zippy500]

This I aqquired this problem with the car. I asked the last owner if he could help "it was fine when i had it" he said.

Saying that I think the car was in storage for 5yrs, and everything looks pretty rusty in the engine bay.