Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

What was the first year that a vacuum windshield washer was available?

Believe it might be the 20th series. April 1, 1942 Service Counselor has this article mentioning the new accessory.

Packard didn't provide many details so the question might be if theirs was vacuum operated or just a foot or hand pump operated device.

The unit is mentioned again in SC's for the 21st series and a photo of a vacuum operated device is in the 22nd series acc. catalog. Some ebay vendors have the same Trico unit Packard pictured in 48 listed as being on GM prewar cars so chances are it was the same and vacuum.

Sure wish the list price for those ebay items was still the same as Packard mentioned.

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Thanks Howard,
I was aware GM had them in 39 and I hoped Packard did also. Located the reservoir in an Atlanta shop but did not want to "dress up" my 39 120 with a later accessory.

Lowell

The way the accessory is promoted to the dealers as a safety and high profit feature and to be suggested to customers, who is to say an enterprising individual didn't sell one to a good customer driving a 39 when the washer was introduced. IMO, if you want to add one it could be justified.

It could be just like the 51's equipped with power brakes which didn't officially arrive until 52 or the pre 49 cars equipped with the R11 overdrive. There was a campaign, instructions and a kit to retrofit those items to the earlier cars so I wouldn't think a washer on an earlier car could be considered any less "correct".

Does't take much to "justify" another project.
Thanks