Electric Windshield Wiper - 1978', 53' YF - Repair

[Timm]

The articulating arm for the port side wiper is broken (PO) where it attaches to the pivot inside the boat. I purchased all of the replacement parts from Sams and am about to tackle replacing the assembly.

The picture attached shows what I'm up against. The "caulking" oozing out is almost rock hard and it looks as if I am going to have to somehow pry it apart. I started and the wood started cracking. I'm thinking of just breaking it into pieces and rebuild the teak piece. But, I'm not sure what I'll find when/if I get it open.

My question is: has anyone ever done this repair? I have all of the internal/external parts ( I think) including a new arm and blade.

 

[rwetherington]

You do have the wiper blades off the other side? you will have to take all the parts off the other side and drive the assembley back though the hole from the outside. not going to be an easy job. when you put it back together make sure you fill the hole full of caulking again. you will need more than just the shaft that goes though the fiberglass.

 

[Timm]

Thanks Roger. Yes, I do have the wiper off.

By driving it back through, won't it have a tendancy to crack and or rip the teak plate mounted to the bulkhead? Should I try and loosen up the caulking first? With maybe a heat gun?