Budget Removable Windshield Wipers

[skidd]

FOR RENT (just pay it forward)
These are now available for perpetual rent. Texas doesn't require re-inspection after all.
I don't want money for renting these.. only that who ever has them, pays for shipping to the next person who needs to borrow them.
Please take care of them, and don't abuse them. I'll keep this thread up to date with who has them... and who wants them next.
Just post in here and we can share the love. So, please help me keep track of them, and lets get everybody registered!!

So.. I live in a state that requires automatic wipers for inspection. But.. I didn't want to spend the big $$$$ on the F5 wipers, and I was not confident in the quality of those eBay wiper systems. Not to mention... once I do the initial inspection on my car, I never need to get it done ever again. :) Given also that I live in a place that doesn't really rain a lot, and I usually have plenty of warning, I fully plan to go the RainX route, and leave these off.

Hence.. I decided to spend as little as possible to pass inspection. Enter the SpeedWayMotors $33 wiper motor. I bought 2 of them, and fabricobbled a mounting system that is totally removable.

http://www.ludicrous-speed.com/zp/cache/Shanes%20Cobra/Wipers/IMG_20180107_122834_595.jpg

I used the door-latch brackets that we normally just throw away. Had to drill out the center hole a little bit, and make a small notch on one side.
http://www.ludicrous-speed.com/zp/cache/Shanes%20Cobra/Wipers/IMG_20180107_113257_595.jpg

A 2" length of 1.5"x1/8" angle aluminum, with 1/2" cut off of one side. Drilled some holes for the main arm, and to clear 3 of the motors face-plate screws. The piece of rubber is just a bit of vac hose. That bit will rest just at the bottom edge of the windshield trim. It's there to take the weight of the motor (which isn't really that heavy) and help resist some of the torque (which isn't very high)
http://www.ludicrous-speed.com/zp/cache/Shanes%20Cobra/Wipers/IMG_20180107_113617_595.jpg
http://www.ludicrous-speed.com/zp/cache/Shanes%20Cobra/Wipers/IMG_20180107_115921_595.jpg

All the parts attached to the motor. The main center nut is torqued down pretty snug, and the friction between all the bits is more than enough to resist the torque of the motor.
http://www.ludicrous-speed.com/zp/cache/Shanes%20Cobra/Wipers/IMG_20180107_115813_595.jpg
http://www.ludicrous-speed.com/zp/cache/Shanes%20Cobra/Wipers/IMG_20180107_115821_595.jpg

[skidd]

.. cont



4 counter-sunk head machine screws with some rubber isolators, and a couple of split washers for a bit of added spacing.
http://www.ludicrous-speed.com/zp/cache/Shanes%20Cobra/Wipers/IMG_20180107_113344_595.jpg


Mounted!! The top nuts have split washers in there.. and they are not really torqued down crazy-far. More than enough to hold, and pass inspection. Were I to leave this installed, I might use nylocks. It's hard to make out, but the wire between teh motors is just tucked into the windshield channel.. then continues down the passenger side frame where it sneaks behind the dash.
http://www.ludicrous-speed.com/zp/cache/Shanes%20Cobra/Wipers/IMG_20180107_122845_595.jpg


.. and plugs into my cig-lighter power box (switched 30a circuit). This is a painted piece of pot-aluminum with a cig-lighter port, and a dual USB port on the other side.
http://www.ludicrous-speed.com/zp/cache/Shanes%20Cobra/Wipers/IMG_20180107_123104_595.jpg

All removed in about 5 minutes.
http://www.ludicrous-speed.com/zp/cache/Shanes%20Cobra/Wipers/IMG_20180107_124014_595.jpg

And.. a quick youtube video of them running.

https://youtu.be/LQv1sPf7lRU

Assuming I pass inspection.. fingers crossed... I'll then never need these again. I'm thinking about setting up a rental program for these. That way others who need wipers just for inspection and rent these for ??$$?? some reasonable price. Not sure if that's a good idea or not.

[wareaglescott]

Nice work!! My state required a wiper. Inspector said there was no requirement for it to be powered. I used a hand crank manual 1 wiper system. Passed inspection and took it off.
Yours is a great solution for people that actually need real wipers to pass inspection. Thanks for sharing. That should help some guys out!

[RoadRacer]

Very nice solution! And, yes, you'll probably be kept busy renting them out - to 33 guys too.

[wareaglescott]

What do you have about $75 in it? Shipping it back and forth would be the main expense. IF you truly will never use it again and you feel you got $75 worth of value out of the forum with help/suggestions from others it might be a cool idea just to do a pay it forward system where whoever needs it pays to have it shipped to them and then passes it to the next person that could use it for the cost of shipping.
Seems like there is a pedal bender going around on the other forum. I always though that was a cool idea.

[Jim1855]

Skidd,

I like 'em but they are butt ugly. Please, no serious offence intended towards your simple solution.

I've driven a lot in the rain using RainX, this generally works. Have also found that the wipers on my previous SPF cars were marginal at best, to the point that they worked about as well stored in the trunk as when mounted and moving.

Jim

[skidd]

No offense taken. I agree, butt ugly!!! These will not stay on the car past inspection. That's why I'm thinking about putting them into some sort of rental, or pay it forward program once the inspection is done.

[JKolbfleisch]

I used the same setup, they stay on exactly as long as the inspection and OFF! If I'm driving in weather that requires wipers .. I have bigger concerns!

[skidd]

^ Bingo!!
And.. I passed inspection just last Friday.. so.. money well spent.

[skidd]

Update...
1st rent going out to TMartinLVNV in Las Vegas.

Reminder.. anybody else wanting to rent them.. please just post in here.

[TMartinLVNV]

I'm feeling like a Starbucks card sent to the originator (Skidd) from each person that uses it is in order.

[1volfan]

Skidd, I'm still a couple of years away from ordering my kit so I won't be needing wipers for quite some time. I just wanted to thank you for helping others who will be facing the same situation you were in! It's guys like you that make me log in and post comments on these forums. I have never had the opportunity to sit in or drive one of these cars, but this been a dream of mine for the last 12 years. I told my wife that this summer we are taking a trip to the FFR Headquarters and let her see for herself all the different models. She said I have to sell some of my other "projects" first. I feel like I have already put together each model as I have read and studied so many build threads that I could almost put one together without instructions! I have never seen a forum where guys go out of there way to reach out and help each other as much as you guys do! Just remember me when I start asking questions on my build, and don't remind me about saying I could put one together without instructions!

[Ponymedic]

Skidd,
Congrats!! just about done getting mine on the road in NY(Thankfully not as crazy as Steven's inspection process from a couple of weeks ago). I have a similar single setup that I also would be happy to offer up with the same conditions. Pass it on when your done123703

[Big Blocker]

Quote" I used the door-latch brackets that we normally just throw away." Mind explaining this. My MK-II has had the door latch bracket on it for 18 years now and I'm just wondering what the current builders are doing that eliminates the bracket completely.

Curious minds want to know . . .


Doc

[skidd]

^ Not sure what to tell you.. except that it's even right in the manual. That bracket isn't used on the Mk4. The door striker mounting point is a part of the frame now.

[TXdad]

I would like to get on the list for the use of the windshield wipers. I am ready for inspection and willing to pay it forward.

Thanks
Jason

[skidd]

Currently.. TMartinLVNV (https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/member.php?28540-TMartinLVNV) Has them. Terry? You done, or almost done with them?

[TMartinLVNV]

Skidd, he got a hold of me. I'm still waiting to get the body back and then I'll need a bit of time to get it inspected. I just messaged him saying that I can send to him right away if he is ready and he can send back. I don't want anyone waiting on me.

Terry

[Ponymedic]

Jason,
If you want to PM me your address Ill send out this week

Ncik

[skidd]

Just remember guys.. please post in this thread if you currently have the wipers. So we can track where they are .. and where they are going.

[TXdad]

I have the wipers. Got inspected today. Worked great. I will box them up. Thank you Terry for sending them to me so quick. I will mail them back to you tomorrow.

Thanks again Skidd for you great work on these.

Jason

[TMartinLVNV]

I got my Roadster inspected today and no longer need these temporary wipers. I'm ready to send to the next person that needs them. Let me or Skidd know.

Terry

[alexmak]

It's going to be me, I'm about to put the body on and venture into the inspection within the next week or so. PMed you the address

[TMartinLVNV]

Ok, Alex, I'll get it out to you USPS.

[RuffShod]

This is allsome!

[legend42]

Please add me to your list. My car was just dropped off for paint, so I will not need it until late October some time.

Thanks!

[Ponymedic]

I have a single wiper unit available if anyone needs PM me. All I ask is you pay it forward and send it on to the next guy

[skidd]

Please add me to your list. My car was just dropped off for paint, so I will not need it until late October some time.

Thanks!

I believe that alexmak as them. Pretty sure he's done with them too... I think. I don't really have a list going... Just this thread.
If alexmak is done, just PM him so he can send them over.. and post in here so we can keep track.

Love that these things continue to pay off.

[TMartinLVNV]

Kinda feels like giving the middle finger to each states' DMV.

[Vegasjack]

Alexmak. I am pretty much ready for inspection. Last thing need are wiper blades. Can youo update the status of them?
Thanks,
Jack Lundquist, Las Vegas, NV Yes, Terry and I building cars same time. He is just a lot faster. lol

[alexmak]

Alexmak. I am pretty much ready for inspection. Last thing need are wiper blades. Can youo update the status of them?
Thanks,
Jack Lundquist, Las Vegas, NV Yes, Terry and I building cars same time. He is just a lot faster. lol

Hey Jack, I have legend42 who reached out to me first, but his car is being painted at the moment. I suggested to wait if someone comes with more immediate need. Looks like legend42 will need wipers in October while you need them in September. I can send them to you now then, and you will forward them to legend42 once you are done. Please PM me your address and I will send them to you this week.

Alex

[Vegasjack]

OK, great. I sent you a PM, but not showing you received it. I will send again. If not, please text me at 702-443-7425. Many thanks.

[alexmak]

Got the PMs, will send out early next week. You will be responsible for sending wipers next to legend42, probably

[legend42]

Thanks to skidd for coming up with this kit. It works great and I sailed through inspections and licensing with no problems. I have them boxed up and ready to ship to who ever needs them. Just send me a PM with an address and I will take care of the rest. Might be good idea to email me as well as I check that more frequently:)
rhmerino@aol.com

[legend42]

Wiper kit has now been passed on to John C. in Wichita KS. I have his email if anyone needs it, just send me a PM.

[skidd]

Just adding to this thread for posterity... looks like the wipers are available again.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?39145-Skidd-temporary-wipers-for-roadster-are-available

[erstanl]

Id love to get my hands on this thing.

[skidd]

^ Just contact CobraKan in the link I posted above your post. He'll send them over to you. then,.. just post in here when you have them so the next person can find them.

[JB in NOVA]

Looking to borrow these wipers for my inspection. Can someone let me know who currently has them? Thanks!

[svassh]

Anyone know who has these currently? Found out I need to pass an inspection in Texas with wipers :(

[skidd]

Anybody know where these wipers are? Hope they are not lost forever. :(
I think CobraKan was the last person I know of who had them.

[Bobby Doug]

Looking to borrow the wipers for Va state inspection. Send me PM and I'll get you my contact information.

Thanks
Doug

[skidd]

I managed to get in contact with CobraKan. He still has the wiper kit. And is ready to send them to whoever's next.

So? Who's next?

[Hoodlum60]

I’m ready for a Texas inspection right now. I don’t want to cut in line, so please let me know when they are available. Thanks.

[skidd]

Don't know if it was unique to the shop I used, or San Antonio or what not... But I asked the guy after he was done my inspection about the windshield wipers, he said they didn't matter and he would have passed my car without them.

It might be worth asking the shop that you're going to use... Also don't ask the guy at the front desk, ask the guy who's going to do the inspection.

I originally asked the guy at the front desk about windshield wipers when I set up the inspection appointment... He was adamant about needing them and that they had to be electrified. Only to find out the day of inspection from the actual inspector that it didn't matter... C'est la vie!

[AC Bill]

Very nice solution! And, yes, you'll probably be kept busy renting them out - to 33 guys too.

Windshield frame on a 33 might not accept them, although I'm not sure, never having seen them up close.

[Hoodlum60]

I think it’s luck of the draw with who inspects them. The state law says you need them. I remember getting inspections in the old days with all kind of violations and a six pack could get a funny car inspected! But it sure doesn’t hurt to ask.

[CobraKan]

Anyone needing the "Famous Skidd add-on windshield wipers". I have them, just text me at 316-644-0505 and I'll send them on. I am in Kansas and they worked like a charm, passing inspection without a second look.

[skidd]

Did These ever get moved to the next person?

also... @ItsBruce - This is the thread I was telling you about.

[zee]

+1. Where are we with these?

[legend42]

I have had 2 annual Texas inspections, not only did they not ask about windshield wipers, they liked the car so much they didn't charge me!:D

[john42]

I'm glad I had real wipers installed on my car. Couple times when out driving on a perfectly clear day, I have had spray from other cars get me, water from puddles get me and a surprise brief light rain. The FFR wipers worked great. I would have otherwise had to pull off the road and manually clean the windshield. I didn't do it to pass inspection, I did it for me!

[skidd]

I have had 2 annual Texas inspections, not only did they not ask about windshield wipers, they liked the car so much they didn't charge me!:D

Annual texas rego? You shouldn't need to do that. If you registered your car (as I did) as an "Assembled Vehicle", you never need the annual inspection. Only that initial ASE one . I have not had to inspect my car since.

That said.. I hope we can figure out where these things are. CobraKan had them when I texted him a little while back. Not sure who was next to get them from him. I might text him again and see if he still has them.

[skidd]

Just checking in... Where are these wipers? Anybody know?

[TMartinLVNV]

It looks like it has been a while since someone has posted that they are in possession of your setup. Hopefully, the paying it forward with this setup has not come to an end. It has helped quite a few people.

[skidd]

Friendly Update.
I contacted CobraKan via Text, and have confirmed he does still have the wipers, and is ready to send them to whom ever is next.
He's not on here very frequently, so if you want to "borrow" these wipes, just text him directly. see post #48 above.
And of course, once you've received these wipers... please post in here.

[cschwer]

I got in touch with CobraKan and he sent the wipers to me. I will update this post when I'm done with them and I can pass them on.

Thanks
Chuck

[StewPididiot]

I'm going to be going for inspection soon in California. Are these still being passed around?

[JohnK]

Wipers aren't required in CA.

[cschwer]

I'm going to be going for inspection soon in California. Are these still being passed around?

I still have them, waiting on my inspection and I will let you know when I'm ready to send them on.

Edit: sounds like you don't need them in California.

[cschwer]

I passed my IL inspection this week and I'm ready to send the wipers to the next person. PM me if you need them. I also have a single manual wiper available that I can send to someone.

[Its Bruce]

I passed my IL inspection this week and I'm ready to send the wipers to the next person. PM me if you need them. I also have a single manual wiper available that I can send to someone.

I'm getting close to needing them. Do you still have them?

[JJK]

I have them in DFW. My inspection is Tuesday. When do you need them. Also, I made some additional mounting hardware to mount them on the windshield without removing the center windshield mounted rear view mirror (if using this instead of the body mounted variant).

[Its Bruce]

Hopefully in a month or so - no immediate rush. I will be using a windshield mounted mirror. Are you getting form VTR 64 or 852?

[JJK]

852 to avoid yearly inspection , pm me and I will update you on starus

[Axoid]

I need these for my enhanced inspection in Pennsylvania. Who currently has these?

[JJK]

I have them in TX. I sent a PM.
JJ

[Its Bruce]

I have them in DFW. My inspection is Tuesday. When do you need them. Also, I made some additional mounting hardware to mount them on the windshield without removing the center windshield mounted rear view mirror (if using this instead of the body mounted variant).

I just want to comment that JJ's modification made it possible to mount these as stated, without removing the windshield mounted mirror or scratching the coated windshield frame. Great add.

[Axoid]

Just an FYI, I currently have these in PA, and had my enhanced inspection yesterday. As soon as I get my title and plate I'll be ready to ship them to the next person in need. I just want to hold on for a bit until I confirm everything went smoothly and don't need a follow-up inspection.

[Axoid]

6/12/24: My title and registration are complete, so I am all done with these wipers. Ready to send them to whomever needs them next.

NOTE: I'll update whenever I ship them to the next person in need.

Thanks,
Don

[ProfessorB]

I love the play it forward idea. I don't need 'em (South Carolina could care less) but just think this is so cool. I have found, in my own life, that whenever I give it just seems to come back to me.

[FarmerDave1321]

Raising an old thread -- are these still available for pay it forward? Need to get my car registered in DE and they want wipers.

[Axoid]

Raising an old thread -- are these still available for pay it forward? Need to get my car registered in DE and they want wipers.

They are still with me. Get me your address and I will get them packed up and shipped to you. They served me well for registration in PA.

Don

[FarmerDave1321]

Fantastic! Will shoot you a PM.

[gbranham]

Anyone needing the "Famous Skidd add-on windshield wipers". I have them, just text me at 316-644-0505 and I'll send them on. I am in Kansas and they worked like a charm, passing inspection without a second look.


Kansas requires wipers for inspection? Since when? I didn't have them on my MkIII when I got it inspected in 2006...no issues whatsoever. In fact, all the Highway Patrol inspector did was review my Manufacturer's certificate of origin, verified the serial number from that document matched the serial number stamped on the frame, and I was on my way.

Greg

[Mike.Bray]

I have a manual wiper that has a 3D printed bracket to attach to the slot in the windshield frame. It worked for my inspection and one other here in Texas.

If anyone needs it just PM me and I'll send it to you.

[jbow03]

Hey guys, getting ready for inspection in TX. Looking for these, anyone have them?

[skidd]

Bump

[skidd]

bumpitiy bump

[FarmerDave1321]

I PM'd Axoid back in December with my address, I haven't received them yet. I'm assuming they're still with him.

[skidd]

I PMd them last week also. No response yet. :( I sure hope these are not lost .

[Oshkosh Rob]

I could use the wipers in Wisconsin for my inspection if found. Bueller...Bueller?

[Axoid]

Sorry all, the wipers are still with me. I have not been receiving the notifications on posts here. we remodeled our entire basement starting right after Christmas and these got packed away and I forgot about them. Pulled them out of the bins this week and wanted to check in here. Who's next on the list, I will get them out this week in the mail.

[skidd]

WooHoo! Glad to see these are back on the table!!

[Axoid]

I PM'd Axoid back in December with my address, I haven't received them yet. I'm assuming they're still with him.

FarmerDave1321, if you still need them I will mail them out to the address you PM'd me back in December. Just let me know. If not, who is next on the list?

[Oshkosh Rob]

If nobody steps up, I could use them. I have parts on order but can return them. I should have my inspection in 4 weeks

[Wingman06]

I went with this. It simply clamps on the top of the window frame for the inspection and gets unclipped when you're done. 216116

These are hand operated used on a Model A I believe. That means no wiring or "damaging" the car. MOST states require at least one functional wiper but none that I am aware of specified "powered wipers".

[Wizbangdoodle]

Subbing to this for when I need to take my car in.

[Oshkosh Rob]

Axoid and Skidd, is there anyone else in line for these? I can PM you my address and contact info if I can get these next. My registration was submitted earlier this week and expect to go through inspection in 2-4 weeks.

[skidd]

I don't know who's next.. I guess whoever chimes in needing them the soonest!

[Axoid]

I don't know who's next.. I guess whoever chimes in needing them the soonest!

Oshkosh Rob, if FarmerDave1321 doesn't chime in over the weekend, I will mail these to you. IM me your address. I'll post here on who I send these to and when.

Thanks,
Don

[Oshkosh Rob]

I PM’d you my address

[Oshkosh Rob]

Is there an update on the status of the removable wiper unit? The state cashed my check and I need to figure out if I need to build something or can get these soon.

[Axoid]

Is there an update on the status of the removable wiper unit? The state cashed my check and I need to figure out if I need to build something or can get these soon.

Wipers were shipped to you on Saturday the 26th, they should be there this Wednesday latest. Sorry for all the delays, I hope they serve you as well as they did me.

[Oshkosh Rob]

Don, delivered today. That was fast. If someone has a need for these in the future, reach out.

Thanks again Don for sending and thanks Skidd for putting these out there for the community to use!

[Claybuster]

Hi group and Oshkosh Rob,
I am in the process of registration in Florida. I chose to begin with the highway patrol instead of the local DMV, and so far, they have been very helpful and receptive. The stumper I have for them at the moment is if I will need wipers. They are seeking clarification from the main office in Tallahassee. For those that successfully registered in Florida (an ASPT vehicle...that's a different debate...), did you have to have wipers?
In the meantime, Rob, I will PM you my address if I may borrow that wiper kit. Thanks again to those that have kept this going!
Jason

[Oshkosh Rob]

Jason, I will ship them to you. You PM’d me your address so I will work on it this week and let you know tracking number once I have it.

[jbow03]

Rob/Jason, do either of you still have these? Looking to have them sent to Houston for my registration if possible.

Joe

[Oshkosh Rob]

I sent these to Jason a couple of months back.


Rob/Jason, do either of you still have these? Looking to have them sent to Houston for my registration if possible.

Joe

[Claybuster]

I have them! PM me and we can coordinate a send out!
Jason

[Claybuster]

Temp wipers sent to jbow03 over in Fulshear, TX. It would be kinda cool to see some kind of map to see the places they have been. May the registration gods be kind to you, Joe.

Jason

[skidd]

That would cool to have! Shoulda done a registration photo and hashtag or something. :)

[Wizbangdoodle]

Hopefully jbow03 monitors this thread because I'm gonna need these soon. Is there a list of people needing these? Who's next? If no one else is waiting, I'd be happy to be next.

[LSX]

Monitoring :) for future inspection