Question: I just bought a 1941 Oldsmobile that has a problem with the windshield wipers. They slow down every time I step on the gas, especially if I’m going up a hill. Is this a common problem, and is there a fix?
Answer: Yes, and yes. This is a common problem, and yes there is a fix. Actually, it’s not really a problem. It’s the way that the system is designed, and the culprit is your windshield wiper motor which is powered by engine vacuum rather than electricity. All car engines produce vacuum as they operate, and this vacuum is utilized to operate power brake boosters, heater and air-conditioner vents, and other accessories. Back in 1941 it was used to operate the windshield wiper motor. The problem is that when the accelerator is depressed, engine vacuum drops dramatically and these vacuum operated wiper motors slow down, or even stop. I can only imagine what it was like driving up and down steep, winding mountain roads in the dark of night in the rain back in 1941.
The solution is to replace your vacuum operated wiper motor with an electrically operated one. There are conversion kits made that come complete with the wiring and switch for about $200. The kit can be installed in about two hours. If your car still retains its original electrical system make sure to specify that you need a motor that will operate on 6 volts.
Answer: Yes, and yes. This is a common problem, and yes there is a fix. Actually, it’s not really a problem. It’s the way that the system is designed, and the culprit is your windshield wiper motor which is powered by engine vacuum rather than electricity. All car engines produce vacuum as they operate, and this vacuum is utilized to operate power brake boosters, heater and air-conditioner vents, and other accessories. Back in 1941 it was used to operate the windshield wiper motor. The problem is that when the accelerator is depressed, engine vacuum drops dramatically and these vacuum operated wiper motors slow down, or even stop. I can only imagine what it was like driving up and down steep, winding mountain roads in the dark of night in the rain back in 1941.
The solution is to replace your vacuum operated wiper motor with an electrically operated one. There are conversion kits made that come complete with the wiring and switch for about $200. The kit can be installed in about two hours. If your car still retains its original electrical system make sure to specify that you need a motor that will operate on 6 volts.
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