'Gotta ask again' about original electric wipers

S

saltman

Member
There was next to no response to my question(s) about the OD-C1 series electric wiper that I posted a couple of days ago. The poor of response either suggest a lack of information available or its just a topic very few care about.
The question was about how the 'manual mode should, 'theroretically', work. A 'noteable source' told me that: theroretically, that while pushing in on the wiper shaft, the shaft should disengage from the motor and the wiper could be manually operated by the lever. The source also said that although the wiper was designed to work this way, it really didn't... it was only used to 'assist' the motor should it get stuck, etc.
Does anyone have one that operates as it should, have information/experiences regarding this or possibly pictures that illustrate how the wiper looks internally?
Thanks again!
 
according to page 246 of the service bulletins a quick movement of the lever can be used to break loose a stuck blade,or used for a quick wipe without turning it on, that starting the motor will re-engage the "clutch" for normal electric operation.

it also says "this handle can also be used if it is desired to wipe the windshield by hand"
 
The original electric wiper as installed on my '29 Murray Town Sedan works "as designed" but I am very reluctant to operate the wiper manually. I simply don't want to wear out the rather delicate assembly.

I have Rain-x on the windshield and have not had the need to even turn the wiper on. Even in heavy rains, the windshield stays quite clear.

The wiper locks internally by having a pin through the wiper shaft "indent" on a collar. The shaft is spring loaded to keep the pin in place unless external force is supplied which over rides the spring pressure.

Gar Williams
 
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As long as the internals are properly lubricated, there is no danger of damage by operating the blade manually. There should be lube between the pin and gear with the indent and it should not take excessive force to operate. I have several rebuilt EA's both the C-1 and C-2 models and they are great wipers if properly restored and lubricated, I would not rely on an unrestored wiper as the grease is usually decades old and hard. Unlike the Owen-Dyneto wipers the cases are pressed steel and don't warp. The most difficult parts to restore or find are the gears, I replaced some of mine with modifiied hobby-store gears used in remote control cars.
 
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