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

I just noticed that the wipers work very slowly on my '50 Super DeLuxe. Any pointers on where to start would be greatly appreciated!!

The manifold gaskets and resurfacing are in and are a VAST improvement!

I love my car.

Lubrication might help. Some have had success but it's also possible it is just time for a rebuild. If you try the lube, several have recommended vacuum pump oil and others have used air tool oil in place of the Trico lube. Check out the instructions for lubing and one on hose collapse in the service counselors. There are several pertaining to wipers here.packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/serviceinfo/catindex.php?cat=23&series=3

You say it may be time for a rebuild... A rebuild of what? The wiper motor or the vacuum pump? Can you tell I am reallllllyyyy green??

The wiper motor. They have several paper and rubber gaskets as well as leather or felt seals on the paddle edges which tend to dry out or wear from use. The lube might rejuvenate them but if paddle seals are excessively worn, it won't help much. If you do need a rebuild, Ficken Wiperswiperman.com/ comes very highly recommended.

Thanks so much! I will try the lube trick tomorrow then off it goes to the rebuilders! Did I mention, I love my car!

If you have a good strong vacuum at the wipers at idle, then the vacuum pump is probably OK. It's in series with the manifold vacuum source and doesn't do much of anything but act as a pathway in normal operation. When you are at a load or under acceleration and manifold vacuum drops below what the vacuum pump can provide, then the vacuum pump is stronger and provides the vacuum to wipers. You can test it by disconnecting the hose going to the manifold at pump and see how much is left at the wiper motor. It won't be as strong as manifold provides but if not there or very weak, then the pump or hoses might be leaking and could need attention as well.

Or you could just install this and not have to worry about it anymore:newportwipers.com/products.php?year=1949+Late+-+1956&make_id=20

I guess you could but...

12 volt motor kit.......$209.95
6 -> 12 volt inverter...$149.95
S/H ....................$ 27.00
........................_______
........................$386.90
Includes 3 year guarantee. Installation of switch, wiring and inverter required. Non-standard look.

or

Complete rebuild........$ 99.00
Shipping to/from........$ 16.00 (approx. possibly less)
........................_______
........................$115.00
Includes 3 year warranty. No installation of switch/wiring/inverter involved. Refurbished motor only looks better, not different.

Guess it depends on what you want and how much you want to spend. Either option works... I took the second path.

Convert to 12V, no $150 inverter needed.

You are too funny. Lets see, in lieu of a $150 inverter we need; A 12 volt battery, an alternator, a gazillion light bulbs, coil, voltage limiters for the gauges, radio, etc. Yep... that'll save some cash ... but we end up with some very speedy wipers for our efforts yes?