Washer Pump Not Working - DIY Fix ...?

Question

I drive a 1993 Nissan Sentra Classic (B12 Series, E16I Engine, Canada). After taking in the vehicle for some problem I found the windshield washer pump is no longer responding.

I checked the wiring and it seems to be transmitting power. I disconnected the plugs into the pump and inspected the ends. There was this green/white thick paste over the leads so i used some rubbing alcohol and a toothbrush to clean it. Not very well tho. The plug going into the very bottom of the reservoir appears to have 2 wires going into it however the blue wire appears to be free floating, not connecting to the plug at all. My guess is this is the problem and it needs to be reconnected for the pump to work.

My questionare:

1. Any good tools to clean out this green/white paste from the leads? The area can be tiny and so my toothbrush isntgetting into the spaces as thorough as id like. If theres some needle-nose like brush with a coarse end, that could do the trick.

2. Is there an easier way of reconnecting the floating wire back to the plug, or must i struggle with a soldering kit?

Thanks.

Answer 1

The paste is lithium gease and is there as an anti-corrosion method from the factory--do not clean it out. Check with local salvage yards or parts dept at a dealer for a replacement plug or cut the wires, remove the plug, solder and reinstall. Check for power to the pump and also make sure the ground is good.