1970 washer pump.

[Bob H.]

I need a little help. My car was restored but sat for 8 years. Wipers work but not the washer pump. I hear nothing. Does it have like a pump piston that could just be stuck? Also, now I have the battery disconnected can I just power the pump on the yellow and blue wires using my mini battery? Disregard! Got the pump running so now I just need to get it pumping some water

[Pat M.]

Re: 1970 washer pump.

Bob, make sure all of the internal gaskets are sealing properly, i.e., o-rings, umbrella valves, piston gasket. If they aren't sealing it's not going to establish a prime, or lose it once it gets one. The headlight washer check valves can also help hold a prime.

As to the pump, in the past I've been able to block off the four outgoing ports, put soapy water on the outside of an assembled pump and blow air into the main ingoing port. If it's not sealing correctly you'll see bubbles coming out.

Good luck.

[Chris H.]

Re: 1970 washer pump.

The ‘70 5 port washer pumps are notorious for being cantankerous thus they were a one year only design. What folks do on the judging field is prime the system so when the button is pushed it at least works for a few seconds. There may have been a rebuild kit for them at one point.

[Pat M.]

Re: 1970 washer pump.

Various auto parts stores used to carry a small repair kit for 3-port pumps, and you could carefully remove the unbrella valves and install them on a 5-port. Ebay still has some for sale.

Small air conditioning o-rings can also be used to replace the single, connected o-ring piece on a 5-port.

GM used to sell a new 3-port pump assembly, and you could harvest various (hard and soft) parts for the 5-port, including umbrella valves and the hard to find correct piston gasket. I believe it is discontinued, and I don't know if there's another source for them.

In my experience the really hard (if not impossible) part to find is the sort of four-leafed clover gasket near the back of the pump. It's so unique, and over time it shrinks and won't provide a good seal. I've put a little silicone over them with success.

[Bob D.]

Re: 1970 washer pump.

I have had luck with rubber rejuvenator. IT is sold on Amazon and is used for rejuvenating rubber rollers on copying machines. I have had luck with MG Chemicals Rubber Renue.

Bob