Hello Friends, help needed again. I have a 1972 and need to replace both wiper arms. The brass spray tubes are missing. I have new replacements with tubes but I am very concerned on how to remove the old arms. The "special tool" that I used on my 82 and 73 I don't think will work because the brackets for the hood grille get in the way. I have the wiper door open and the grille removed from the car. Does anyone have any suggestions to remove the arms without busting up the paint, wiper door or removing the wiper door? Many thanks as always.

 

The "tool" will usually work. Biggest trick is pulley the arm straight up so it doesn't wedge on the spline (assuming it's not corroded on in the first place) Mine fit under the bracket that held the grill but there's not a lot of extra room.

This is the tool you're talking about right?


M

 

I've also used a really wide bladed flat screwdriver (before I bought the tool) and put it in under where the latch part is and "twisted" it to both open the latch and pry the arm upwards, you need to wiggle it around (the arm) to keep it straight. Possible using both the tool and a flat screw driver underneath could be done???
M

 

Hi Mooser, yes I have that same tool Was not sure it would work on an earlier C3 - 1972. I'll try again first thing in the morning. I'm getting exhausted working on this car.

 

I tried the tool, but found it easier (like Mooser) to use a flat wide blade screwdriver under the latch area and wiggle it upward. You can't wiggle the new one in that easy, though..........this is where the tool helps to keep the arm straight when reinstalling it. The new one doesn't have years of gunk holding it on and will fall right into place when lined up with the splines. Another tip, place the wiper blades on the arms before replacing them.

 

Thanks Guys. I'll try that first thing in the morning and keep everyone posted on the progress.. Any other tips are greatly appreciated.

 

And add a good slathering of anti-seize when you put it back on
M

 

If you try and use the tool, put some electrical tape on the part of the tool that rests on the wiper arm. I bought new arms that are painted black, and didn’t want to scratch them. There is a video that shows how to use the tool, seems easier than a big screwdriver.

 

I've seen the (easy) video, too, but if yours is stuck hard (like mine was), the tool will bend trying to remove the arm and won't work. The screwdriver is sturdier. Yes, electrical tape, good tip......I used it, too. Also, if you're replacing the washer hoses, attach them to the wiper arm end before installing the arm......very hard to reach afterward.

 

Hi All. Mission Accomplished!!!!. Thanks so much. I used the tool on the drivers side which helped very much but it definitely bent. I have used this tool many times over the years so maybe time to retire it. Could not use it on the passenger side. I bet these wiper arms have been on this car for 50 years. Several flat blade screw drivers, lots of twisting and pulling, a pry bar and many naughty words finally got it done. Took 2.5 hours to replace both sides but now she has new wiper arms and sprayers. Hard to believe it took so long. Nothing is easy to get to. Beautiful car that I love and in fantastic condition....Now to the next project. Ugh.

 

M