1. Gather Necessary Parts and Tools:
- Purchase an electric wiper motor and wiring kit.
- Get the appropriate tools for electrical work, including a wire crimper, voltage meter, and wrenches.
- Disconnect the Air Supply:
- Park your Kenworth on level ground and apply the parking brake.
- Locate the air supply line connected to the air wiper motor in your 1978 Kenworth.
- Disconnect the air line by carefully removing the fittings. Cap off the open end of the air line to prevent dirt and debris from entering.
2. Remove Air Wiper Motor:
- Once the air supply is disconnected, remove the existing air wiper motor by unbolting it from its mounting points.
- Set the air wiper motor aside for proper disposal or recycling.
3. Mount Electric Wiper Motor:
- Align the new electric wiper motor with the mounting points previously used for the air wiper motor.
- Bolt the electric wiper motor securely into place.
4. Install Wiper Linkage:
- Attach the wiper linkage from the electric wiper motor to the wiper blades.
- Test the wiper movement to ensure it's working smoothly and covers the desired range of the windshield.
5. Electrical Wiring:
- Follow the wiring diagram provided with your electric wiper motor kit.
- Connect the motor's power wires to the vehicle's electrical system, ensuring proper polarity (+ve to +ve and -ve to -ve).
- Connect the ground wire securely to a good chassis ground.
- Run the wiring neatly and secure any loose wires using electrical tape or wire loom.
6. Control Switch Installation:
- Install the new wiper control switch in a convenient location on the dashboard or steering column.
- Connect the switch wiring as per the provided diagram, ensuring it's connected to the appropriate power and ground sources.
7. Test and Make Adjustments:
- Turn on the power and operate the wiper switch.
- Check if the wipers are working correctly and the blades move smoothly across the windshield.
- Make necessary adjustments to the wiper arm lengths or tension springs to ensure proper contact and wiping action.
8. Final Checks:
- Once you're satisfied with the functioning of the electric wipers, double-check all the electrical connections and secure any loose wires.
- Test the wipers again in various intermittent and continuous modes to ensure reliability.
- Replace the dashboard and covers that were removed during the installation.
9. Clean Up:
- Clean up the work area and properly dispose of any old parts or packaging materials.
10. Enjoy Electric Wipers:
- You've successfully converted the air-operated wipers to electric on your 1978 Kenworth. Now, you can enjoy quieter, more efficient, and more reliable wiper operation.
Note:
- Before attempting any electrical work, it's essential to disconnect the vehicle's battery negative terminal to ensure safety and prevent short circuits.
- For any complex electrical work or troubleshooting, consulting with a qualified mechanic or an experienced auto electrician is recommended.
