Classic/Antique Car Repair: 74 vw beetle, resistance meter, vehicle fires


Question
what can i check  or look for to stop the fuse from blowing on my windshield wipers. they ran perfect and then the fuse thing. please any suggestions will help.
thank you , joyce

Answer
First, Joyce. make sure that the fuse is the correct amperage value. One of too low a value will blow, even if everything in the circuit is in perfect condition.

If the fuse value is correct, then there's something amiss in either the motor, the switch, or the wiring itself. NOTE: NEVER, EVER replace a fuse with one of a HIGHER amperage value--this will heat up the wiring and is a leading cause of vehicle fires on the road.

Start by cleaning any wiring terminals with a small hand toothbrush-sized brass wire brush. Do these one at a time, disconnecting them and reconnecting them.

Put another fuse in of the correct value. If it blows, it's the switch or motor. This is simple process of elimination--start with the most obvious, easiest to fix, and/or the cheapest part in the chain to replace.

Next, the switch. This should be removed or checked in place with a resistance meter; at this point, you're probably best off taking the car to an auto electrical shop or specialist mechanic. I avoid dealers; they don't do well in this sort of work, as their mechanics work by the book and hate wiring problems.

Finally, the motor. This is a very expensive proposition for these later Bugs, and its function should be verified by a pro before replacing with another motor.

I hope I've given you enough to go on. Oftemtimes, this is a simple fix, and if it isn't and you have to take it to a pro, at least you'll know it's been done properly.

--Paul