Papa wrote:
> I own a 1988 VW Cabriolet Convertible that I am trying to restore.
One of
> the things that apparently does not work is the windshield washer. I
assume
> that the way it is supposed to work is to pull back on the windshield
wiper
> lever on the right side of the steering column. When I do that,
nothing
> happens. A new washer pump has been installed, and the wipers
themselves
> work ok (2 speed). I haven't checked the fusebox yet, but according
to my
> service manual, the wipers and the washer both are connected through
the
> same fuse.
>
> Looks like I may have a broken circuit for the washer. Any
suggestions?
> Thanks.

I went through this on my '84 Scirocco, I ended up having to replace
everything but the switch - it was all dead. The pump is actually
fairly expensive, so if you can get a good used one from a junkyard
you're better off doing that. You will need to get a grommet from the
dealer if you remove the pump (you will see what I mean when you get in
there.) I had to replace the nozzles on the hood as well (dealer) and
all the hoses as they were old and brittle. The cool thing is that the
windshield washer tubing is exactly the same as the stuff that is used
for air hose for aquariums so you can get the tubing and fittings at
your local Petco for cheap. I spent the extra $2 and got a roll of the
"lifetime" silicone hose which worked well for the whole time I owned
the car.

Obviously as the other poster suggested test the voltage at the pump
connector before you do anything else, that will help you narrow down
the problem, or at least see if there is a problem with the column
switch.

good luck

nate