58 Cad Electric Wipers

[robert G. smits]

While on the AACA Sentimental Tour last week a 58 Cad owner told me that the Optional Equipment List for 58 included an Electric Wiper option.  Is this true and has anyone seen one?  Doing a search failed to turn up any information.  Thanks
Bob Smits # 2426

[Walter Youshock]

No, it's not true.  '59 was the first year for electric wipers on Cadillac.  The wiper/washer system on the '58 was completely vacuum controlled.

Chevy had optional electric wipers in '57 and I think Pontiac may have offered them as early as '54.  Cadillac held out to the end.

[Roger Zimmermann]

In 1960, Lincoln had still vacuum wipers....

[Walter Youshock]

Thinking about the late 50's, Chrysler had more "toys" than Cadillac.  First cruise control, power vents across the board...

Maybe JC Whitney offered an electric motor for retrofit but Cadillac never had anything such as a kit. 

[robert G. smits]

Thanks for the replies.  I knew that I had never seen electrics on a 58.  Is it difficult to retrofit a 59 motor on a 58?  Thanks, Bob Smits #2426

[cadman49]

robert,  hope this helps. i put elec. wiper motor on my 49 cpe. and it not only hooks right up but i works great. what a difference. it makes a little more noise but powerfull. the w/motor came off of my old 55 chev. nomad.(i know) and plopped right on and using the stock 49 on/off wire/cable. it seems g.m. didnt stray far from that design. i also have a 57 vette,and it has elec. wipers from factory and its the same. try it,youll like it.   p.s. your 58 also has another vacuum pump in the oil pan. crazy huh? ill leave you with that thought.  richard king