71 Wiper Door
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
71 Wiper Door
Hello everyone. I know volumes have been written regarding C3 Vacuum maladies yet I have found nothing pertaining to my problem while rebuilding my 71 BB 4sp. I have noted that Alan, Senior Member seems to be very expert on these systems so any suggestions welcomed.
My issue is the Wiper door takes approx 4 full minutes before opening and upon open wipers activate correctly and when off door closes without hesitation. This is the case whether activating wiper switch or manual over ride switch. Oddly my headlight doors work perfectly with no hesitation.
The Wiper door does do the dreaded wink upon start up so I have assumed a leak somewhere. I have replaced every component from check valve to relay to override to solenoid to by pass switch and can hear no vacuum leaks around any part of the system.
Any suggestions at this point very welcome.
Many thanks.
My issue is the Wiper door takes approx 4 full minutes before opening and upon open wipers activate correctly and when off door closes without hesitation. This is the case whether activating wiper switch or manual over ride switch. Oddly my headlight doors work perfectly with no hesitation.
The Wiper door does do the dreaded wink upon start up so I have assumed a leak somewhere. I have replaced every component from check valve to relay to override to solenoid to by pass switch and can hear no vacuum leaks around any part of the system.
Any suggestions at this point very welcome.
Many thanks.
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
71 Wiper Door
The Actuator was replaced but I will re check the plug seal again.
Regarding manifold vacuum it is a very steady
15-18 (Edlebrock Manifold) and headlight doors pop almost instantly on start up. Given that the door takes so long to open yet eventually does was wondering if a bad Relay spring may be causing the delay even though I already replaced. The start up Wink still suggests a leak but if it were that bad my idle and headlight doors would be affected I assume.
In the end we all know she wont be “intentionally” in the rain anyways.
Thanks for responding so quickly.
Regarding manifold vacuum it is a very steady
15-18 (Edlebrock Manifold) and headlight doors pop almost instantly on start up. Given that the door takes so long to open yet eventually does was wondering if a bad Relay spring may be causing the delay even though I already replaced. The start up Wink still suggests a leak but if it were that bad my idle and headlight doors would be affected I assume.
In the end we all know she wont be “intentionally” in the rain anyways.
Thanks for responding so quickly.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 2,476
Likes: 756
From: Laporte, IN
My recommendation would be if can find a vacuum source other then your car like a vacuum compressor. First do a direct connection to the Actuator to open the door. Then working backwards go to each item in line to eliminate that particular item and area of the system.
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2020
Posts: 1,586
Likes: 956
From: Central Florida
2024 Corvette of the Year Winner - Modified
2023 C3 of the Year Winner - Modified
2021 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
My thoughts…test the actuator easy to do. I believe Wilcox has a step by step online. I’m in the process of rebuilding mine. Except, I will be converting to electric. No vacuum hassle and fast clean operation. Easy to install as well. Richard454 makes and sells them. He’s a member here.
good luck.
good luck.
