The '89 definately sounds different than my Dad's '86 and my '93 240. When the wipers are ON, there is a noise that sounds kind of like a cat purring...but only more mechanical. (<-- try to imagine that!!)

About 4 years ago, the original wiper motor quit working so I replaced it with a used one from a local pick-and-pull. Even before I replaced the motor, it still made the sound..the same as afterwards. Maybe there's something bound-up with the wiper linkage assembly..but I can't imagine how the wiper mechanism could become binding. The "mechanical purr" noise just goes faster when the wiper is selected to fast speed...no change in tone or intensity.

Anyone have any experience or ways to check this?? I just want the wipers to run as quiet as my Dad's '86....that ain't askin too much is it?? Thanks,
Cabbie2169

Try loosening the two screws in back of the motor and spraying some WD-40.
It worked for me.
--
-Cool Volvo- 1982 240 4 Spd OD w/ 227K, 1989 240 5 Spd w/ 214K. Used to own 1966 122, 1968 144, 1970 145, 1972 144, 1980 245

It is that axle which come throught that sleeve, is it stuck?
Quite common problem, it should move freely (when you have take all clips, seals etc. away) up and down, but I bet you need a hammer to get it move axialy.

I had a similar problem with the 84 245DL. My problem was that moisture had somehow gotten inside the wiper motor case and rusted the inside of it. The rust caused the glue to come undone from one of the magnets glued to the round motor case. The magnet was hitting the wound-up soil setup making a "purring noise" when the wipers were on. I was able to take apart the motor and it's casing and re-glue the magnet with JB Weld. Took me about two hours taking apart, cleaning the motor case, and gluing the magnet in place. I did let the magnet sit for 15 hours like the directions for JB Weld said and the motor works great know with no noise.

To get to the linkage/motor arm connection remove the glove box and disconnect the wiper linkage from the motor. See if the motor still makes the noise without the wiper linkage connected. If it does then just switch or repair the motor if possible. Good Luck!

Sincerely,
--
Julio Meza

1979 264GL B27F 127K --> BW55->M46, CLS, IPD Sway, 81+ Dash, Gauges, Flat Hood & E-Codes

1979 262C B27F 163K --> Restoration Project

1984 245DL 216K --> Sport Wagon

2002 Mercedes C320S 33K --> Wifemobile