Installing Windshield Wipers On Your Hot Rod

In your garage sits your dream Mustang. Sure, it needs a little help, but it has everything you want in a muscle car. Or, maybe you’re restoring a Pontiac GTO. No matter what vehicle it is, you are going to spend hours working on your car to make it exactly what you want. Sometimes, when your focus is on the car’s aesthetics, it’s easy to overlook some of the important functions, like windshield wipers. In fact, for many who own 1970s muscle cars, the idea of driving them on the road in the rain is almost ludicrous, so why bother with windshield wipers? All it takes is one storm without the right wipers for you to realize the importance.

Your Hot Rod’s Wipers Aren’t Sufficient

Most older cars have vacuum wipers. These work by connecting the wiper motor to a wiper transmission. In addition, some particularly old models have a wiper only on the driver-side window. Unfortunately, if you’re actually driving in the rain, both of these systems are going to do little to help with visibility while driving. They simply aren’t as effective as modern electric windshield wiper systems. For this reason, you may want to consider adding modern windshield wipers to your car as part of your upgrade and repair list.

How to Install the New System

The good news is, installing a new electric system on your hot rod is not difficult. Most windshield wiper installation kits are simple to install, with some basic DIY knowledge. First, you will need to gather your tools. Be sure to grab:

• Screwdrivers
• Transfer punch
• Hammer
• Drill with multiple bits
• Soldering gun or wire crimpers
• Windshield wiper installation kit

Once you have the new system purchased, installation is fairly simple. First, stop power to the wiper motor and remove the old system, noting where it sat in the car. Next, clean everything thoroughly using a product like 303® Multi-Surface Cleaner, to ensure it is ready for the new system.

Then, see if the new system will line up with the mounting holes. If not, add new holes with the drill to properly mount the new wiper motor. Follow the installation kit instructions to finish the job. Finally, if your hot rod has a windshield washing fluid tank, toss in the 303® Instant Windshield Washer Tablets™ for extra cleaning power.

Installing windshield wipers on American muscle cars ensures you can drive them no matter what the weather. The task is not difficult, so consider tackling it as you fix up the dream car waiting in your garage.