Vacuum wipers ideas

[Shawns Fords]

I have been thinking about vacuum wipers often for some reason.

When I traded for my 69 Bronco, the person I bartered with had already changed the windshield frame over to an electric. I thought about it a bit and figured that is a good update but thought about other ways to make the original vacuum type operate better with many modern components. I am going to write my idea and see if anyone has already tried this or is interested in doing so.

Most modern vehicles built today use a vacuum reservoir with check valves to hold vacuum in the reservoir for times when engine vacuum runs low. So my idea is to route new hoses and install a more modern vacuum system into an EB. You can even install an electric motor from a 98 and newer super duty ford for additional help and the motor is a small component that can be hidden just about anywhere. A late model Lincoln Navigator uses one for the air suspension and other various items and it is hidden between the battery and fender well. The purpose of installing these items is to make sure you always have a good reliable source for your vacuum operated wipers.

Has anyone else, or is anyone interested in trying something like this out?

[Cortez]

Yeah - I'm running the original vacuum wipers and plan to get a vacuum canister to build more consistent and stronger vacuum. I saw some in Summit Racing catalog. Do you know any junkyard vehicles we can find some...I'd join you in a pullin party some day to get a couple.

I like the old school style of the vacuum wipers, and I've added a helper spring to put more tension on the wipers...now if I can get a vacuum canister to put some more muscle in them I'll be in good shape.

[Shawns Fords]

Most late model vehicles have the reservoir, I would look at Explorers and navigators. My memory is vague but you cant miss them, they are usually tied into the heater/ac system and have a small vac line going to them. I would get the tank and lines going with the check valve. Look at late model F 150s and expeditions as well. If you get the electric motor from the excursions and super duties you can run those when your losing vacuum with a switch, they tend to heat up and pop fuses often. I like the way vac wipers operate in a nostalgia kind of way. and for a purist this would be a great way to not mess up the authentic vacuum wiper system by converting to electric.

[ZOSO]

I have a 03 gmc 1500 that has an electric vacuum pump on the brakes. So look there too.

[Shawns Fords]

Cortez, I'm willing to go help you find some bits n pieces and see what we can do to make this work.

ZOSO, I'm sure you'll find them on more vehicles than we think. the electric motor would be great for when your parked and not running. Just for a little extra help. Otherwise you'll only need the reservoir and check valves with some plumbing.

[Justin]

I was thumbing through the Jeg's catalog last night. They've got some basic vacuum canisters for $30 for anyone that doesn't want to mess with JY parts.