Thread: Tri-5 chevy/pontiac guys help..... windshield wipers

Tweet

I just picked up a 1956 pontiac and it is very similar in all most all aspects to my buddy's 55 Chevy 210. I'm hoping that somebody may know a little about both and could maybe help me.

My 56 has a vaccum operated wiper system. Somewhere along the line the previous owner installed a electric fuel pump and blocked off the mechanical pump with bolts in the ports.

My problem is that at park or idle the wipers barely move. I understand that they will move quicker at higher rpms, but these are barely moving at all. Even when driving they are very slow. I was wondering if there was a way to get more vaccum. Maybe the addition of a vaccum canister or something? I'm not real familiar with the concept.

Or I know some 55-57 chevys came with electric wiper motors. Would one of those motors be a direct swap for the vaccum unit? Can I still use the same arms and all?

Is there a good aftermarket electric kit for this application?

I just want to be safe in the rain. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

I grew up on vacuum wipers. The worst invention ever. Electrics were such an improvement when they came out,

Actually, the vacuums work better at no or part throttle, because you have more vacuum. We used to have to lay off the gas momentarily to let the wipers clean the windshield, then we could get back on the gas.

I know there are electric conversions for lots of cars, and maybe the tri 5 Chevys are the same or adaptable. Someone on here may have a source for you.

Don

I think I found a conversion at Juliano's. $210 That's a lotta bread, but I guess it's the price you pay for being in the hobby.

Had vacuum on my 55 chevy..........If you rebuild the vacuum motor, they
actually don't work too bad.

Might check with Bob @ www.newportwipers.com he's got ya covered....