Re: Windshield wiper trouble

Posted by BH On 2007/8/15 11:10:05

fredrickr -

The 1955-56 parts book is not available here (yet). I have an original, but will not have time to scan and upload to BigKev until later this fall (gotta make hay while the sunshines).

Wipers are covered in the Instruments section of the service manual, which can be downloaded here (it's free), and there is a schematic of the vacuum hoses. The washer system was an option on Clippers and available as kit for dealer-installation; as such, they are covered in the Accessory section of the service manual, also downloadable.

However, 1956 models with pushbutton transmission control had the washer pump relocated to the right side cowl area. I don't have a copy within reach, but the parts book may provide a better illustration of the hose routing.

While the washer pump uses an electric switch, that merely energizes a small solenoid that opens a passage to apply vacuum to move a large piston/plunger down in the jar. When you release the button, spring tension pushes the plunger back down and internal valving directs the fluid to the washer nozzles on the wiper pivots.

As such, if you have a vacuum leak in the network of hoses or the vacuum motor, the washers won't work.

Hope this helps get you started in the right direction.