I purchased a 1947 Cadillac Fstbk last year and it has a rear wiper option. Does anyone know about this option? Is there any printed info on this system? Thanks, also wanting to verify correct switch under dash.
Dick,
I don't see in my literature where the rear wiper option was specifically offered in 1947 - however, it was offered in 1942 on both the series 61 and 62 fastback models. Being that the body styles for both series fastbacks were identical between 1942 and 1947, the rear wiper option could easily be installed on a 1947.
Attached is a page from the 1942 Accessory Data Book describing the option. I've left the scan large so you can see things in detail.
I chair the Class 12 (1942 - 1947) Authenticity Committee and I have never seen this option on a car. Would you be willing to share photos of the wiper and the knob?
HTH,
Jeff
What a great option. Wonder why it was stopped.
Bruce. >:D
PS. This is another feature that put Cadillac scores of years ahead of other car makers. These days, nearly every SUV has them.
Funny that I had a sports car with a rear window wiper option and while it was rare and I was really excited about it-- I found I almost never used it ;D
But on a '47 Caddy, that is pretty cool-- and what a conversational option at shows!
I remember seeing this after WWII. Usually, it was on Pontiacs. (1946-1948.) Also, as I remember, Pontiac really pushed aftermarket accessories for some time after the war. I saw a Pontiac accessory catalog at one time, but can't remember the year And, of course, the "B" body was also used by that marque.
Here are photos of the wiper and switch. They do look legit. I attached a photo of the body plate, note this is Fisher #6 body for 47. Doesn't get much lower than that! Thank you Jeff Hansen for the info and photos. A side note, I grew up at a Cadillac dealership, the owner was a huge V12/V16 guy in Ohio.
Dick, was that Dave Towell?
Dick,
You are welcome for the photo and information - and thank you for the pictures of your car, wiper, and knob! The knob looks consistent with knobs that I have seen on the larger series rear seat radio albeit a different color. The bracket is also authentic.
You have a gorgeous automobile!
Jeff
Yes, this is a nice car. If you are looking at the wiper blade: it's one for a flat windshield. I would install one which is flexible like a blade from the forties or fifties. Maybe they are too long, they are usually 12".
Quote from: Barry M Wheeler #2189 on February 14, 2023, 06:42:47 PMDick, was that Dave Towell?
Yes it was. My father was the service director in the 60's.
Guys,
Believe it or not, I have an rear wiper kit 1444875 in the original box. It has been opened and burglarized, but there is still a treasure trove of nos items: Instruction sheet, fits (1941 & 42 Series 61, 63, 67; 1941 Series 62). Small parts package, wiper motor and arms, wiper blade still in glassine envelope, switch, switch mounting bracket (brown), rubber hose. Clearly, the arm is missing, but I don't know what else.
If anyone is interested, contact me, dennis@caddyparts.com before I post it on eBay. Offer? I can post or email pictures.
If it fits Ser 61, it may fit B bodied Pontiacs, Olds, etc. If it fits '42 61, 63, 67, it would fit '46 and '47, I would think.
This site suggests making a new posting, so I may do that if this one does not get interest.
Dennis
Dennis sent you a PM. Thank You.
You have a nice car there
No such car as a Sedanette in 1947. The correct description is Club Coupe. This is a well-known misconception of these late 1940s cars.
Yes, only Buick used Sedanet (Buick's spelling) as a model name for their fastback club coupe back then. Along the way someone changed the spelling slightly to Sedanette and the name was applied, incorrectly, to Cadillacs of the same body style. We're probably stuck with it. :)