From digest.v7.n773 Mon Dec 15 18:59:50 1997
From: Tom Austin <austin_at_ime.net>
Date: Mon, 15 Dec 1997 16:34:30 -0500
Subject: re: '85 325e windshield wipers "stick" in intermittent mode

Chuck MacWilliam writes:

> When I use the intermittent mode on my windshield wipers, they sometimes
> hesitate or stop before they wipe the whole window. I either have to
> hold the control lever down until the wipers seat themselves, or I have
> to put them in slow or fast mode so they'll wipe the whole window. I've
> heard of other E30's with the same problem. Question is, what't the
> solution? Thanks.

I had this problem with an 87 325 es. It slowly got worse, and happened occassionally on the slow wiper speed. My solution was a new wiper motor, which solved the problem.

That said, I wouldn't be surprised if tearing down your existing motor and removing and replacing the 12 year old grease did the trick. I've never done it, but I've talked to people who have.

R&R for the wiper motor is covered well in Bentley's. Two comments. Be very careful when you remove the heater blower motor. The plastic squirrel cage is fragile and a tight fit. Also, sliding the motor out through the vent at the base of the windshield is a PITA. Still, it can be done if you're persistent and the stars are properly aligned.

Good luck

Tom Austin
89 535i