Busted headlamp wiper W124

[Richard.Wilson]

Hi guys,
Had a problem with the wiper on my headlamp, it seemed to keep moving about, not returning to the correct place each time I checked. Undid it a few times and set it right, but that didn't seem to stay put.
Anyway, it dropped down low below the light whilst I was on a long journey, and so as not to scratch the paint I "persuaded" it up again.....no 8mm handy, BF&I used. SNAP.....OOPS it's gone floppy, just swinging back and forth.
Any idea how easy it is to fix these things before I tear it to bits?

 

[Orlando 300E]

Hello Richard,
The good news is that you are not alone, I am in the same boat with a lop sided floppy headlamp wiper- and I know what has gone wrong (that?s the bad news).
The wiper motor is mounted on a flange on the underside of your headlamp. This flange is part of the headlamp body (pale grey plastic) -the bit the lens & reflectors attach to.
The problem is that you can not get that plastic moulding on its own from the ever helpful dealers, only a complete headlamp! I switched off when he looked up the price, knowing my (same as you) moment of aggression was going to cost lots: around about £120 seems to ring a bell.
I have asked tentatively how much for a second hand headlamp- £60 (still a lot when its only the plastic I really need.

My plan is when I do eventually get a replacement, is to probably leave the wiper disconnected, but mounted in place. My reason for this is I had a lot of trouble with the old one stopping in the incorrect position, half way up the headlamp. I could live with that, but it was the driver?s side one that controls the washer when the wiper reaches a certain point. one day it managed to jam itself just so it could empty my washer reservoir! :evil:

The other thing I found was that the wiring to the wipers is very thin -mine had corroded through within the plug connector. Ended up having to chop of the plug off and crimp on bullet connectors.

So if you find a source for the backing plate or even cheaper headlamps please let me know.........oh yes, I need a older style (pre 92') Drivers side one!
Best wishes
Orlando