Windshield wipers seem sloooooow…

[Son_of_a_Nun]

Used to own an ‘82 720 30 years ago. Currently purchased a 1980 720. I don’t remember the wipers being so damn slow. I have a two speed system. Looks like there was extensive work done on the wiper system. Somebody even welded in a new backplate for the motor mount. Motor looks replaced but a standard motor. Really confusing why it would be so slow. Maybe that’s how it is? Any thoughts on how to test it or improve its speed?

[datzenmike]

If not stock or has been altered who knows. But some things are universal even if the wiper motor is fine.

 

1/ Clean the windshield with fine steel wool and wash thoroughly. Use RainX and read the directions. This stuff fills in microscopic fine scratches that rain (and the wiper blades) stick to. Guaranteed to make the glass more slippery and pick up some speed.

 

2/ Go through the linkages and lube everything with lithium grease. Look for damage, binding or wear. Reduce friction and effort.

 

3/ Assuming the battery is good, clean the posts and the cable clamps. Make damn sure the body is GROUNDED properly either to the battery ground or to the engine block which is where the battery ground is bolted down. Needs full voltage and ground return to run a designed speed.

 

4/ A poorly charging alternator will see the headlights dim and brighten when stopped idling with the turn signal on. Again needs full voltage when other things like headlights and heater are on.