1963 Operations Questions

[Rick A.]

During a recent NCRS show the following problems were noted and wondering if folks had any hints before I start tearing things apart:

1. Windshield washer appears to not operate - motor shot?
2. Heater fan appears to only operate on high - ?
3. Cigarette lighter no light - element shot?
4. Everything underneath dirty - get in air and Simple Green?

[Duke W.]

Re: 1963 Operations Questions

1. First check that the hoses and nozzles aren't clogged. You should be able to hear the pump from the engine compartment. Listen for it with the ignition on and the engine not running. If you can't hear it, check the connectors, then run voltage and continuity checks using the electrical schematic in the '63 Shop Manual as a guide.

2. Check the connectors, then run continuity checks on the fan switch and resistors using the wiring schematic as a guide.

3. Check connectors and voltage. There should be 12 volts on the lighter circuit at all times, but the elements can burn out.

4. Simple Green does not cut into old built up POL stains very well. Mineral spirits will quickly dissolve them, but mineral spirits will also dissolve the asphalt based frame paint. Gunk is also an excellent grease dissolver that can be rinsed with water, but I can't remember if it attacks the asphalt frame paint. Test it in a small area.

The harness connectors on the cowl tend to build up resistance from corrosion over time, so it's not a bad idea to remove them for a careful inspection and cleaning. Take your time as they can be tough to separate and the plastic gets brittle with time, which can cause them to crack. Inspect the pins and receptacles carefully with magnification. Dress any corrosion off with a dental pick or minature brass brush. Never use sand paper on electrical connectors. Sandpaper grit is non-conductive and grit will be left behind.

Finish the job by coating the pins and receptacles with a water repelling anti-corrosion compound. I use WD-40. Some recommend silicone dielectric grease, but I prefer WD-40 for low voltage connectors and only use silicone dielectric grease on the high voltage ignition terminals and boots.

Duke

[Rick A.]

Re: 1963 Operations Questions

Duke,

as usual, thanks for the thorough and insightful response

[David Van Weele]

Re: 1963 Operations Questions

Duke

Gunk does indeed remove the original ashpalt frame coating.

Dave