My 1999 Forester windshield wipers has plenty of play.
After removing the hood so I can get at the linkage channel better, and removing the passenger side plastic cowl, the motor connection to the linkage was found to be very loose.
The white knuckle cap that snaps over the linkage ball joint, is broken at the split end grippers.This allows the nylon washer to travel too high, and the linkage to float, giving the wiper extra play.
Where can I get a replacment white knuckle cap, or is there another clip-on cap that would replace the white knuckle?.
Replacing the total linkage is not necessary as the wear item in only at this spot.
I'm willing to adapt alternative items that could snap over the ball head.
This is a DIY fix for a dollar. The white plastic caps that join the wiper arms together in the wiper assembly commonly wear and break under normal use. 1984 - 1986 Honda CRX and Civics also used these plastic caps for a short time - much to my dismay. In my 2000 Subaru Legacy and Subaru Forester (should work on 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 models as well), there is an easy DIY solution that will take care of the excessive play in the wiper travel, as well as the common 'wiper clunk'.
Head over to your local auto parts store an purchase a PCV Valve grommet for a Toyota. Part number 42058. These are only a dollar, and are normally stocked on the shelf. If you put the phrase 'pcv valve 42058' into to Google Image Search you will see what I mean. I’m attaching a picture as well.
For installation, gain access to the wiper assembly, I recommend removing the entire assembly (arms and motor) from below the black trim piece under the windshield. Inspect all the joints. If you have a loose joint, remove the white plastic cap and the arm from the ball joint. Slide the PCV Valve Grommet over the ball joint and press the arm into the grommet. This is now a perfect, snug fit. Wiper blades slamming into the car is a thing of the past.
I couldn't find a new 'ball joint' so I tied it down with one of those white zip-up tie downs
acdelco wiper transmission { linkage }
Love BrvLilToastr's solutions. I have the same problem and definitely will do that. I've just temporarily fixed it with a cable tie. Cut a little bit off and "wrapped" it around the neck of the ball joint and put the cap back on so the play isn't that big. But it's a bit dodge and just for now until I get the pvc valve.
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