C3, 68 Wipers Problem

[Jack Corso]

Need a little help. With the engine running, I turn the wiper switch on and get nothing. Then, I go to the over ride and the cowl opens, then I move the switch and the wipers work. Does it sound like the dash switch?

Thanks, Jack

[Jim T.]

Re: C3, 68 Wipers Problem

Jack in your post you state that you go to the override and the cowl opens. The override switch to me is the electrical switch under the steering column that we use to stop the wipers on the windshield so we can service the windshield wiper blades.
In your message I would guess that your use of the override is meant pulling down the vacuum operated switch for raising and keeping cowl wiper door in the up position for quick wiper use without having to wait for the cowl wiper door to open.
You probably know that the electical wiper override switch should be in the off position for normal windshield wiper operation. If it is accidently left in the on position, the wiper system will not function.
Having a original owner 68 I have not experienced a problem of my switch not turning on the wipers when I wanted to use them. However there is a solenoid under the dash behind the tach that is part of the wiper system that controls vacuum. From what I think you have identified as a problem with your 68's system, with the switch still capable of making the wipers move after the cowl wiper door is raised, this is where I would troubleshoot first.

[Russ T.]

Re: C3, 68 Wipers Problem

I had these symptoms too on my '68 big block and immediately suspected the wiper switch. After a troubleshooting session that seemed to go on forever, I discovered that some internals in the wiper motor were the culprits. Reference the message entitled: " '68 Wipers: Welcome to My Nightmare", dated 4-23-04 and 4-26-04, as well as a post by Bryan Montford dated 3-10-02. If it turns out that your motor is the problem, don't waste your time purchasing the cheapie rebuilds. These motors aren't thoroughly serviced; they just fix what's broken at the time and the spray it with a gallon of black paint. You need to get a quality AC-Delco rebuild or send your motor out to Corvette Specialties of Maryland. See my message dated 4-26-04 for a reference listing of excellent documents for fixing these systems. You'll need a lot of patience.