58 wiper Transmission installation

[Eric A.]

1958 -- Need some help, first time installing wiper transmissions and the cables. Any guidence how to install the cables without breaking anything and making sure everything is tighten correctly. I tried to find an old post but nothing for 58-60 models. IS the wiper motor base installed first or screws loosen to help with the cable installation? Are all the transmissions stalled tightely ? Please help.

Eric

[Joel M.]

Re: 58 wiper Transmission installation

Push in on the main shaft of the trans while pulling on a the cables and it should allow you to pull some slack in the cable for installation. Then when all done push main shaft in and it should wrap back up and take the slack out. Might be covered in the ST12 or in a great Restorer article several years back as I recall.

[Jorn J.]

Re: 58 wiper Transmission installation

Hi Eric

Send me a PM, I think i have some pics and related about this Job!Regards Jorn, Denmark.

[Richard M.]

Re: 58 wiper Transmission installation

Yes, if the transmissions are working properly the motor mount stays put. The procedure is in the ST-12, Sec 12-5 here.....

http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/shop/5362csg/5362csg1205.html

But it leaves out a major step. The transmissions need to be "preset" first. Before you mount them, hold in a vice. Using pliers on the serrated shaft(protect the shaft serrations with tape or rag, etc), push down and turn the shaft. Hold it's direction, then slowly release the shaft upwards to lock the spring loaded cam of the 2 cable spools. This gives the necessary slack in the cables for reinstallation.

Mount the trannys to the cowl. Now route the cables, criss-crossing the cables on the passenger side set. See below for the cable routing order. Then give the shaft ends a push with a small wood block which releases the tension springs of the spring loaded spools. Done.

Alternative Method:
If your trannys are seized and you don't feel like taking them apart for repair(as outlined below), another way is this.....
Loosen the 2 mount bolts on the motor mount and remove them. Install the seized spool trannys. With the motor mount loosely in the hole, route the cables. The loose mount will give you some play to get the cables on. Then re-attach the motor mount bolts and you're done. However, you won't be able to get any more tension on the cables.

Rich

[Eric A.]

Re: 58 wiper Transmission installation

Great pdf thanks for the help.