Windshield Wipers

[nfpgasmask]

OK, so I want new wipers. Mine squeak and make funny rubbing noises when I use them, even after I Rain-X the windshield. I don't know if I should just get new blades or buy whole new wipers. The arms that hold my blades are a little ratty looking. There is some paint loss and a little rust.

It looks like the left wiper is longer than the right one too. If I just buy blades does this pose an issue?

Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks - Bart

[Ldub]

Someone please correct me if I'm wrong as I'm relying on memory...
The wipers are 17" & 22".
I've used Bosch micro edge blades with good results.
Removing the wiper arms, sanding off the rust & scuffing the rest of the paint, then repainting is easy to do.

[nfpgasmask]

Cool, thanks for the info.

Bart

Someone please correct me if I'm wrong as I'm relying on memory...
The wipers are 17" & 22".
I've used Bosch micro edge blades with good results.
Removing the wiper arms, sanding off the rust & scuffing the rest of the paint, then repainting is easy to do.

[Ldub]

Check the "fitment computer" at the local Wal-Mart to be sure of those sizes.

[Triathlete]

I believe your memory served you well!

[Velvis]

I've had great luck with the Rain-X wipers here in moistureland, and the Rain-X wipes. Also, the price is right and available at Wal-Mart.

Velvis

[WyrreJ]

I bought blades that were an inch or two longer than the officially recommended sizes and am happy with the extra coverage. Although I do prefer to rainx the windshield and just drive over 40mph (the minimum speed where the water tends to blow off the windshield) whenever possible.

[mbeach]

You can pop the arms off of your wipers (mark their position first) and hit them with a shot of Krylon. It's pretty common for our trucks (imports in general for some reason) to lose the paint in that area.

I did mine a year ago with the same wheel paint that I ended up using on the Nissan rims.

I use Bosch Winter wipers (all year 'round). They have a rubber cover on them that keeps out the ice as well as protects them from trail debris (sticks, trees, spectators). They were still flexible at -50F.

[VehiGAZ]

I just replaced my wiper inserts with OEM replacements (I have sworn off aftermarket insetrs, because they only last 3-4 months compared with 6-9 for OEM), and I have the same issue - on the up-wipe, they are chattering pretty bad, even with a lot of rain on the windshield. I think they will settle in with a little use, but who knows.

I'm a huge fan of Rain-Ex, too ("The faster you go, the better it works!"), but have recently switched to Rain-Ex brand wiper fluid. It's the milky orange stuff, and it works great! Hard to find, though. But basically, it refreshes your Rain-Ex finish whenever you use it. Good stuff!

[nfpgasmask]

VehiGAZ, where did you get your OEM wipers? Merlin? I will probably do the paint over on the arms, but I still would like new blades.

Rain-X is awesome, but living in Chicago, I seldom get up to 40mph. It still helps tho.

I really want to move out west. I have been looking for a job in Reno for 5 months now. The job market still kinda sucks there tho...plus, I need to up my skillz.

Bart

I just replaced my wiper inserts with OEM replacements (I have sworn off aftermarket insetrs, because they only last 3-4 months compared with 6-9 for OEM), and I have the same issue - on the up-wipe, they are chattering pretty bad, even with a lot of rain on the windshield. I think they will settle in with a little use, but who knows.

I'm a huge fan of Rain-Ex, too ("The faster you go, the better it works!"), but have recently switched to Rain-Ex brand wiper fluid. It's the milky orange stuff, and it works great! Hard to find, though. But basically, it refreshes your Rain-Ex finish whenever you use it. Good stuff!

[Spike]

I installed PIAA silicone wiper blades over 2 years ago.
And they are JUST barely starting to streak.

They came with a premoistened pad of glass treatment that is very similar to RainX ...

I have not used RainX on my windshield in the 3+ years I've had the truck, and I still get some beading.

I will be ordering a new pair soon.

BTW, how DO you pop off the wiper arms? I have never tried to do that before. One of mine has a bit of rust and I want to take care of it...

Thanks!