Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

I just saw this this afternoon and wonder what the reason for this line is, I had never seen this before. Also my 49 has a windshield washer on it but not sure how it operates???

Thanks guys
Dave Beck

It's the source of vacuum for any vacuum-operated system and it passes thru the vacuum booster section of the fuel pump such that, during periods of hard acceleration when manifold vacuum is very low, the booster ups the available vacuum.

Assuming it is a factory supplied or installed or at least a correct type washer for the year then there could be two ways to operate it. It depends on where the vacuum source is connected and the type of washer.

One system has the vacuum source independent and connected somewhere in the tube between the fuel pump vacuum section and the wiper motor. Most likely with a tee in the short section of hose right before the motor. That tube will go to a pushbutton under the dash edge and then another tube goes from the button to the washer top. On that type you hold the button until the water is pulled into the pump section. Releasing the button lets a spring push a diaphragm down and expel the water. Once the water starts squirting you turn on the wipers.

On the second type, the vacuum tube going to top of washer connects to a port on the drivers side of the windshield wiper motor. There is only one vacuum tube and no pushbutton. On that type the wiper on/off knob on the side of steering column rotates both ways. Rotating toward the dash operates the wiper. Rotating backwards toward the driver and holding it there opens a valve on the wiper motor and lets vacuum pass from the vacuum port to the washer. You hold the knob for a few seconds then rotate it forward. Once the knob starts moving forward water will start to squirt and you keep rotating forward to turn the wipers on.

If both types have been dry and unused for 50 years there is a good chance the rubber has all deteriorated and nozzles clogged.

That is cool....never thought of that.
Thanks,

Mine is the one that has the vaccum hose connect to the top of the washer bottle from the drivers side of the windshield wiper. My wiper control knob is in the center of the dash up in the "V" part of the windshield. I have not tried turning it backwards, I do know my wipers work and there is fluid in the bottle so maybe the washer will to thanks so much.
Dave