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Classic Mustang Interval Wiper Switch Install - How To Install Interval Wipers

Modern technology makes it easy to add one of today's most common conveniences to vintage Mustangs

writer: Jim Smart
photographer: Jim Smart

 Classic Mustang Interval Wipers Installed

Modern technology has made it easier to own and drive classic Mustangs. Think about it: four-wheel disc brakes, fuel injection, 130-amp alternators, surround sound, electric locks, security systems, larger wheels and tires, and rack-and-pinion steering, among other things, are now available to bring a vintage Mustang to current expectations.

 Classic Mustang Interval Wipers The New Hardware
This is one of the easiest restomod updates we can think of, short of the PerTronix Ignitor electronic ignition. The Interval Wiper kit from Mustangs Plus is easy to install-no harder than changing a wiper switch. It's compact, plugs right in, and is easy to use.

Now, thanks to Mustangs Plus, we can also have interval wipers, making it easier to drive in light rain. Factory intermittent wipers, as they were originally called, first appeared as an option in Mustangs around 1970. It was rare to see them, and they didn't become common on Mustangs until the '80s. Nowadays, it's virtually impossible to find one without them.

It's now possible to install interval wipers in your classic Mustang without anyone knowing they're there. There's no complicated wiring to contend with, just a switch and microprocessor combo designed to fit in place of the original wiper switch. Operation is simple: just turn clockwise to "On" to get them started. Roll the switch clockwise to decrease wipe frequency and counterclockwise to increase.

We dropped in on Mustangs Etc. in Van Nuys, California, which had a '69 Mustang dashboard available for us to show the quick and easy installation.


 Classic Mustang Interval Wipers Back Of The Dash
Here's a gas pedal's view of the back of a '69 Mustang dashboard. The ignition switch (right) and wiper switch (left) is shown here. For the '70 model, Ford moved the ignition switch to the steering column and replaced it on the dashboard with the wiper switch. A cigarette lighter was added to the left.
 Classic Mustang Interval Wipers Special Tool
1 Mustangs, Etc. has a special tool available for removing wiper and headlamp switches.
 Classic Mustang Interval Wipers Removing The Wiper Switch
2 Turn counterclockwise to remove the retainer.
 Classic Mustang Interval Wipers Back Of The Dash
3 Detach the wiper switch from the back of the dashboard.
 Classic Mustang Interval Wipers Installing
4 The factory wiper switch disconnects as shown. Check all contacts for cleanliness and corrosion issues.
 Classic Mustang Interval Wipers Beveled Spacer
5 Remove the beveled spacer. You're going to need it for the new switch.
 Classic Mustang Interval Wipers Switch
6 The interval wiper switch uses the stamped spacer from the old switch. Installation is the same way.
 Classic Mustang Interval Wipers Contacts
7 The factory wiper switch plug mates to the interval wiper switch plug, as shown. Again, inspect contacts for dirt and corrosion. Mate the plugs firmly.
 Classic Mustang Interval Wipers Wiper Module
8 The Interval Wiper module must be grounded for proper operation. You can ground it at the instrument panel or anywhere there's a screw.

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