When it comes to restoring a classic car like a 1968 Corvette, one of the biggest challenges is restoring the electrical system. Among the many electrical components that require attention, the wiper system is often one of the most overlooked. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the 1968 Corvette wiper wiring diagram.
Understanding the Basics
The wiper system in a 1968 Corvette is a two-speed, electric system. It consists of a wiper motor, a two-speed switch, and a windshield wiper transmission. The wiper motor is the heart of the system, and it drives the wiper transmission through a series of gears. The two-speed switch controls the speed of the wiper transmission, while the wiper transmission moves the wiper arms back and forth across the windshield.
Wiper Motor
The wiper motor is an electric motor that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. It is located on the firewall, behind the engine. The wiper motor has two wires that connect to the wiring harness: a black wire that is connected to the negative battery terminal, and a white wire that is connected to the wiper switch.
The wiper motor also has three terminals: a terminal labeled “H,” a terminal labeled “P,” and a terminal labeled “G.” The terminal labeled “H” is connected to the high-speed circuit of the windshield wiper transmission, while the terminal labeled “P” is connected to the low-speed circuit. The terminal labeled “G” is the ground terminal, and it is connected to the vehicle’s chassis.
Wiper Switch
The wiper switch is located on the dash, near the driver’s side. It has four terminals: a terminal labeled “B” that is connected to the battery, a terminal labeled “W” that is connected to the wiper motor, and two terminals labeled “H” and “L” that are connected to the high-speed and low-speed circuits of the windshield wiper transmission.
When the wiper switch is in the off position, there is no power to any of the circuits. When the switch is in the low-speed position, power is supplied to the low-speed circuit of the windshield wiper transmission. When the switch is in the high-speed position, power is supplied to the high-speed circuit. When the switch is in the washer position, power is supplied to the windshield washer pump.
Windshield Wiper Transmission
The windshield wiper transmission is located on the cowl of the car, underneath the windshield. It consists of a series of gears that are driven by the wiper motor. The transmission has two circuits: a high-speed circuit and a low-speed circuit.
The high-speed circuit is activated when the wiper switch is in the high-speed position. This circuit provides maximum power to the wiper transmission, which results in faster wiper speed. The low-speed circuit is activated when the wiper switch is in the low-speed position. This circuit provides less power to the wiper transmission, which results in slower wiper speed.
Wiring Diagram
The 1968 Corvette wiper wiring diagram is relatively simple, but it can be confusing if you are not familiar with electrical systems. The diagram consists of three main components: the wiper motor, the wiper switch, and the windshield wiper transmission. Here is a breakdown of the wiring for each component:
| Component | Wire Color | Terminal |
|---|---|---|
| Wiper Motor | Black | Ground |
| White | Wiper Switch | |
| H | ||
| P | ||
| Wiper Switch | Battery | |
| Wiper Motor | ||
| H | ||
| L | ||
| Windshield Wiper Transmission | H | |
| L | ||
| Wiper Motor | ||
| Black | Ground |
FAQs
What is the purpose of the windshield wiper transmission?
The windshield wiper transmission is responsible for converting the rotational motion of the wiper motor into a back-and-forth motion of the wiper arms. It does this by using a series of gears to amplify the motion of the wiper motor.
What is the difference between the high-speed and low-speed circuits?
The high-speed circuit provides maximum power to the wiper transmission, resulting in faster wiper speed. The low-speed circuit provides less power, resulting in slower wiper speed. The purpose of having two circuits is to give the driver more control over the speed of the wipers.
Why is it important to restore the wiper system in a 1968 Corvette?
The wiper system is an important safety feature in any vehicle, and it is especially important in a classic car like a 1968 Corvette. Without functioning wipers, it would be difficult to safely operate the vehicle in inclement weather conditions. Additionally, a properly functioning wiper system is essential for passing vehicle inspections and maintaining originality.
Where can I find replacement parts for my 1968 Corvette wiper system?
There are several sources for replacement parts for a 1968 Corvette wiper system, including online retailers and specialty automotive stores. It is important to purchase parts that are specifically designed for your car, as generic parts may not fit properly or function correctly.
Can I install a modern wiper system in my 1968 Corvette?
While it is possible to install a modern wiper system in a 1968 Corvette, it is not recommended for several reasons. First, it would require significant modifications to the car’s electrical system. Second, it would compromise the originality of the vehicle, which may impact its value. Third, a modern wiper system may not look or function like the original system, which may detract from the overall appearance of the car.
Restoring a 1968 Corvette wiper system can be a challenging but rewarding project. By understanding the basics of the system and following the wiring diagram, you can ensure that your wipers are functioning properly and safely. Remember to always use caution when working with electrical components, and consult a professional if you are unsure about any aspect of the restoration process.
