1970 Challenger wiper motor and switch compatibility

[GerryThal]

Hey guys,
I have a 1970 Dodge Challenger that came with a 2 speed wiper motor and a variable speed switch (pn # 2770380). When I bench tested them, it worked for a couple of seconds, then stopped. So then I wired up a 2 speed switch and it worked, so I'm assuming the motor must be OK. The resistor looks questionable...

I would like to use the variable speed switch if possible.

Will that combination (2 speed wiper motor and a variable speed switch) work together? Do I still need the ballast resistor? Is there a "over the counter" replacement for the ballast resistor if needed?

BTW - I am using an aftermarket (Painfull) wiring harness so the switch will be wired directly to the wiper motor.

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Cuda Cody]

Originally the switches were different for a 2 speed and a 3 speed.  Can you post a photo of the switch you are using?

I've never heard of anyone using a 3 speed switch on a 2 speed motor, but that does not mean it can't be made to work!

[GerryThal]

Hi Cody,

Thanks for the quick reply!
Although I don't think ANYTHING was ever fixed or replaced, this is the motor and switch that came with the car, but the car was a basket case when I bought it, so I don't know if the wipers worked properly...

I have attached the only 2 photos I happen to have tonight. I can take some additional photos if needed

[HEMICUDA]

Hi Cody,

Thanks for the quick reply!
Although I don't think ANYTHING was ever fixed or replaced, this is the motor and switch that came with the car, but the car was a basket case when I bought it, so I don't know if the wipers worked properly...

I have attached the only 2 photos I happen to have tonight. I can take some additional photos if needed

What you are showing is a 2-speed variable wiper switch, you can not use that switch with a standard wiper motor because you have a resistor in the switch and that type of motor also has a resistor.  A variable speed motor will not have a resistor and the winding in the motor itself is different.  You will have to either change the switch or get the correct motor.

[Cuda Cody]

 

[GerryThal]

Thank you for the reply HEMICUDA,
Can I take the (motor) ballast resistor out of the "loop" and make it work?
My goal is to make the wiper system more modern by implementing a variable speed switch/motor. I am not trying to keep the car factory original, but was hoping I could use the factory motor to keep it looking that way.

Recommendations?

[HEMICUDA]

Thank you for the reply HEMICUDA,
Can I take the (motor) ballast resistor out of the "loop" and make it work?
My goal is to make the wiper system more modern by implementing a variable speed switch/motor. I am not trying to keep the car factory original, but was hoping I could use the factory motor to keep it looking that way.

Recommendations?

Even without the resistor, I don't think that motor winding will work with a variable speed switch.