Steering column wiper switch alternatives
 

Can folks please post suggestions or alternatives, even pics, for alternatives to the steering column windshield wiper switch assembly.

I've ditched (a while ago) the steering column windshield wiper arm and switch assembly. I've never liked steering column control for the windshield wipers. It doesn't necessarily need to support wiper fluid squirt (that can be some other switch), but I'd like to have at a minimum the 2 speeds and if at all possible the crossover to permit intermittent (I know, que Caddyshack's Spaulding at the snackbar).

I was thinking of trying to find a switch which is compatible with the holes for dash switches (fog, defrost, lighter). I've removed the fog and lighter switches and I'm getting ready to ditch the defrost switch too. Perhaps there is some more clever alternative to such?

Any ideas either implemented or simply in the thought stage?

The 80's GM cars didn't have wiper switches on the column, so they used dash mouted switches; this is what my Jeep has (as they used parts from GM, Ford, whatever to make those AMC cars).

While not particularly attractive, the wiper switch has two positions plus if you press it the washer is activated. Also has a picture graphic on it.

If you check the muscle car restoration catalogs (year one, hmmm, maybe even JC whitney) you'll find some of these replacements.

Chuck.H
'89 TurboLookTarga, 337k miles

Scour the internet for websites the deal in Hot Rods and other vintage cars. Don't leave out sites that cater to 18 wheelers. Should be good sources for custom switches. Then hit the manufactures websites. Spal, VDO, Seimens and such. You'd be suprise how much info you can gleen from these sites.

Seems like a lot of work to re-engineer what is already a relatively elegant solution.

J

Chuck.H and JAR0023, thanks for those ideas! An older switch would do the trick.

JAR0023, my motivation for doing it is:

1- Ergonomics. I've never liked stuff dangling off the steering column. However it certainly makes better sense to do so (as opposed to switches on the dash) for functions whereby one needs momentary control. Eg. turn signals, cruise control.
For me, I don't need momentary control of the wipers and I rarely use wiper fluid. So a simple switch on the dash is my preference.

2 - Weight. The column switch and wire assembly once removed has got some weight to it. It's also quite a ways from CG too. A dash switch is lighter. That lightness translates to better acceleration and handling. Ok, I may be exaggerating a tad here. Nevertheless, I'm always intrigued with what everyone does to lighten their 911s up w/o sacrificing safety or sportiness.

3 - Smug factor. I don't see anyone else doing it to their 911 outside of full race set-up. So I'll have something few at best may have. That makes me quite smug in the presence of other 911 owners.:D

Esell - I hear ya'. Completly understand. I am old enough that my first couple of cars had dash mount wiper switches and floor mount dimmers. :)

I'm currently collecting A/C bits and pieces because I can. Just have some ideas in my head and want to see how it plays out. That's why I was suggesting the hot rod and big rig avenues. I've been googling for A/C parts and those two groups seem to have a pretty healthy aftermarket of basic switchs/motor/relays etc.

It would be nice to find a switch that was pull and turn, say with a rehostat. Pull out to turn wipers on then turn to adjust speed. You know that switch is out there you just have to find it. The washer function with my stalk barely works. I almost always resort to the 'intensive' washer. Not much is lost if you default to that as your only washer function.

J

My 1986 Targa has intermittent wipers. When the traditional wiper stalk is OFF, this allows the intermittent switch to work via a dash mounted knob.

So technically, if you had no wiper stalk, the intermittent switch would still work.

What about that??

Seems like it's just a single assembly. Might even luck out and plug right into a harness.

Here's the switch:
http://weekendrides.com/porsche-part...ent-switch.jpg

Here's where it is on the dash:
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1334540126.jpg

Hydrocket,

You are correct, with a couple of simple wire couplings to replicate the wiring connection state of the column switch in the off position, the intermittent will work sans column control. The only problem is that there have been several instances driving whereby I needed more than the intermittent. Thus I need those additional constant low/high wipe speeds. I rarely ever used the "single swipe" however so I would not miss it.

Also, my '84 had the headlight washer option on it and the switch to activate it is located opposite side of the intermittent pot/switch between the tach and clock.
If I fail to locate a desirable dash switch which includes the windshield sprayer, I am going to use that slot but with a properly rated momentary switch.