Smaller Windshield Wipers - Fuel Economy, Hypermiling, EcoModding News and Forum

redyaris · 10-07-2011, 10:54 PM

I resently disided to install a smaller windshield wiper I had in the van, because one was brocken. I installed the smaller one and then it occured to me, that if the windshhield area that is needed is clear, then there could be a aero benifit to smaller wipers. I have found wipers as small as 10". This is an easy fix for those unwilling to remove wipers entierly.

busypaws · 10-07-2011, 10:58 PM

I went the other way. I removed the passanger wiper and got a 2 inch longer drivers wipper. The passanger wipper never got "tucked" under the hood lip so it was always in the air stream. The drivers wipper I can run on high and quick with the switch get it to stop under the hood lip so it is out of the air stream.

redyaris · 10-07-2011, 11:07 PM

My Yaris Wipers are exposed as are my Aerostar Van wipers, so until I get around to a wiper shield the smaller wipers may help and still clean the windshield.

cfg83 · 10-08-2011, 08:37 PM

busypaws -

Quote:

Originally Posted by busypaws

I went the other way. I removed the passanger wiper and got a 2 inch longer drivers wipper. The passanger wipper never got "tucked" under the hood lip so it was always in the air stream. The drivers wipper I can run on high and quick with the switch get it to stop under the hood lip so it is out of the air stream.

When my current set wears out I am going to copy you. I will keep the passenger wiper in the trunk, but it will be 2 inches smaller.

CarloSW2

redyaris · 10-08-2011, 10:32 PM

The Yaris has a 26" driver side wiper and a 13" passanger side wiper. What I plan to try is 13" wipers on both sides. which may be ok for a relativly dry climate, I guess I'll find out...

QuickLTD · 10-10-2011, 12:28 PM

Be aware that the spring in the wiper arm is weighted for the OEM length wiper. Safety is a consideration on this mod.

NeilBlanchard · 10-10-2011, 11:11 PM

I think wipers in the off position add virtually nothing to the drag. They sit in a high pressure pocket of air, that hardly moves at all, on most cars.

Put a maple seed or a small leaf in the pocket and drive for a while on a still day, and see if it blows out of there?

redyaris · 10-12-2011, 10:54 PM

Thanks neilB but what I will do instead is put some tufts in the area and see what gives.