I am looking for a speedo cable for my 272, 55 Fairlane. I have checked out MAC's and Dennis Carpenters, but they do not list a 55 with a Fordomatic. They have listings for 54 but not 55. The only listing I found was for all models (except Fordamatic)......am I here? I am also looking for a vac*** wiper switch...mine is there but it just spins and has no detents. This is my first vac*** wiper system so I don't have any reference point....am I missing something here too? I know going to an electric motor is the best option and that is the way I intend to go but not just yet, I will do that once I update to a 12 volt system....dollars permitting! If anyone has a spares, I would be willing to buy! THnaks all!
If you get a switch you will still have to get the wiper motor rebuilt and I am guessing it's bad too . Then make sure your fuel pump is the correct one with the diaphragm on top . That will more than likely need rebuilt too . Are you following me so far ? So before I spend money on a switch I would check the fuel pump and wiper pump first . You can byp*** the switch and test the parts out that way . I would consider an electric wiper set up . As for a speedometer cable , get a universal one and cut down to size . You can also try for one for a 56 . I have seen them before but can't remember where . I thought Mac's had them . Have you tried Ebay for one ? Jim
My wipers work on my 55 but I choose not to use it because of the vac*** set up, Rain-X is a wonderful product.
I used a universal speedo cable and didn't even have to cut it down on my 53. It was only about 1/4 of the cost of one from the old ford catalogs too.
All I'm going to say about vacuum wipers is simply this, they **** (barely.). They're okay at best, and if you aren't used to them (its my first car, remember), you'll most likely hate them.
Vacuum wipers + a sh*t-ton of RainX = **** slightly less. Luckily I haven't needed them yet, and luckily in Oregon we don't really get many heavy downpours, but I think if I ever planned on driving in the rain I would definitely want to upgrade.
I have replaced the oil pump with a new diaphram model and also rebuilt the wiper motor. Surprisingly, the motor was in good condition. The internal swipe flap and machined housing were good. I cleaned it up, replaced the seal and it does create vac***. I also installed a vac*** canester, thinking that I could build a resivoir to store vac*** ala break booster method. Not sure if this will add to the performance or deter it entirely. I will only know that once I get the wipers working. Long range plan is to convert to electric, but for now For now, I just want them to work in the event the Police want to see them work! Thanks for your tips so far and please don't hesitate to continue. Roadagent
A vacuum canister will help in that when you p*** or go up a hill, you do have reserve supply, so they should keep sweeping, more or less.
You guys may want to check out the search box here on electric wipers,one of our members adapted one a while back for under $50 before you spend bucks to do it later this might be the ticket.
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