Wiper Problems, '89 type 44 solved (med_long)

[Larry C. Leung]

Well,

Thanks to all whom had responded to my posts on the non-working
wipers on my '89 200. It turns out, it was the steering column switch.
Bentley's pretty well leaves you high and dry on this procedure, I ended
up testing components with known good ones, courtesy of one of the
list recommended suppliers, Double Z Motors (thanks, Pete!). Also,
of note, Bentley's is rather unclear about the removal of the steering
wheel procedure (the warnings of the airbag power connector, left
side of the console, were correct), so I'd like to point out, if you
remove an airbag equipped type 44 steering wheel, it is IMPERATIVE
that you undergo the "remove the clock" spring procedure BEFORE
attempting to remove the steering wheel from the column (you can
remove the center nut before or after, JUST DON'T MOVE the
steering wheel!). Also, not noted in the Bentley's (like there is NO
notation) is the column switches are firmly fastened to the lower
steering column clamshell cover by three small phillips screws, one
top, two at the outer corners of the switch assy. All connectors should
be disconnected (follow the airbag connector procedures precisely,
or you'll have a failed airbag fault that will require a VAG1551 to
correct)
before attempting to remove the lower clamshell with switches
attached. The rest of the job is pretty self explanatory, just give
yourself a couple of hours to do this correctly. As I stated before,
take the time to follow the airbag cautions and procedures or you may
end up with an airbag fault problem. I will attempt to post a procedure
for the replacement of column switches on airbag cars for the achives
later, but I felt posting this quick summary was valuable enough for
someone whom needs this. Sorry, no digi-cam, so no photos.

LL - NY