TD5 Defender
WIPERS AND WASHERS
3
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
Although windscreen wiper functionality remains the same, the mechanical architecture has undergone significant
changes. The body structure has undergone some minor changes to house the revised wiper linkage.
A modified wiper motor is introduced which is balanced to reduce operation noise. The brush plate is fitted with
capacitors to reduce radio interference and a thermal cut-out is introduced to prevent motor burnout. The motor
also contains a new park switch which also reduces operation noise. A common motor is now used on both LHD
and RHD variants.
The motor is repositioned on the bulkhead which allows a straighter drive cable run. The straighter run reduces
load on the cable allowing a stiffer cable to be used. The stiffer cable and the incorporation of a reduced friction
material reduces torsion wind-up of the cable and results in smoother wiper operation and a reduction of blade
over travel.
New, larger wheel boxes are fitted in an inverted position from the previous installation. The bulkhead mounting
holes are larger with flats for positive location of the wheel box spindle. The wheel boxes now feature a 40 tooth
gear ratio in lieu of a 32 tooth gear. This reduces backlash and load and further reduces blade over travel. The
wheel box casings are secured with locknuts.
The wheel box spindles now have a splined DIN taper fitting for the new wiper arms which are secured on the
spindle with an M8 nut. The taper improves arm retention.
A new grease is introduced which improves wiper operation at very low temperatures.