I just picked up an '85 custom cruiser wagon for a hundred dollar bill. It runs great and passed smog but the wipers are completely inoperative. I've checked the fuse-it was good, but I replaced it anyway. I checked the connections at the motor, pump, and under the steering column for the turn signal/cruise/wiper switch and lever; all appear to be clean and hooked up properly. What troubleshooting steps should I take? Thanks!

 

Check that pesky ground strap. Make sure it's making contact with the motor casing.

 

After your ground has been checked, put a voltmeter on it in all of the various places until you find where the power stops.

 

I think you will also have to have the key switch on when checking. If you don't have a voltmeter, you can buy an inexspensive test light.

 

Is the plug in snugly?

Mine was a PIA and kept comming out. Bought a new one at a junkyard for $5

 

You might want to pick up a factory service manual. Or at least a Chilton's guide. That will have a wiring diagram and will make electrical troubleshooting easier. If you check the ground and so forth just wire 12 V directly to the motor to see if your motor is working. If it works, and you know you have good ground then your power isn't getting to the motor for some reason.

 

Don't waste your money on a Chiltons/Haynes/et al. Just get a CSM. Be aware that some years used a separate electrical manual. In 1982, for example, the wiring diagrams were a separate volume but in 1986 they are all in the CSM. I unfortunately don't know about 1985.

Also, be aware that GM wiper motors use a weird shunt winding system. The main winding on the motor gives you high speed. A reverse-wound shunt winding is energized in conjunction with the main winding to give you low speed. The shunt winding by itself is used to park the wipers.