Wiper mechanism noise

[Rattus]

Hi all. My 2004 Corolla T2 has developed a squeaky / grating front wiper noise. I raised the wiper arms to make sure it wasn't the blades. Has anyone  had this happen and did manage to cure the issue (without replacing the link arms or motor)?

Any advice will be gratefully received. 

 

Cheers.

[garethpaul]

I had this, and it turned out to be the wiper arms - specifically the "C" shaped bit of metal that links the spring to the base of the arm. It had worn almost through where it was attached to the spring.

Couldn't find a replacement arm anywhere, let alone parts, so I improvised and made a new "C" bit from a piece of chain. Worked quite well and no more squeaks.

If yours are the same design, worth checking for wear.

[Rattus]

Cheers for the reply Gareth.

I took a deeper look by removing the scuttle panel and trying the wipers. The sound was coming from the pivots that the  wiper arms mount to. Took the wiper assy out and liberal ammounts of WD, followed by engine oil and operating the mechanism with a spanner freed it up. 

Unfortunately I couldn't disassemble the pivots as they are assembled with a type of lock washer and I didn't want to damage them. However, all is now super quiet with the wiper operation.

Thanks again for your advice.

Althe best 

Rattus