My 81 has a dash mounted WWS. I am going to a later model dash pod with no provision for the WWS because those are mounted on the turn signal rod in the later gen 5's. Short of cutting an appropriate hole in the gauge pod or dash, which I really don't want to do, I'm lost. Has anyone got a better idea as to where & how without butchering? Thanks, Jim

Jim,
I read your question 4 times, just to be sure of the question.
Now then, I believe at last count we had 14,364 Members,
to which you will get up wards of 1500 different answers.
It's like asking what color to paint your House.
Don't get me wrong, Ideas are good, and it opens up a range
of greater choices. And I do believe that is what you are
looking for, Correct?
So here's my 2 cents :
Your going to a later model dash, consider also the later
model Steering Column. Other than that, your options are
endless.

That's funny stuff :laughing4::laughing3::biggrin: I guess I was looking for someone to say, "Oh yea, that happens all the time on the earlier gen 5's and everybody does so & so :???::wow::tellme::lookround: I guess not, huh? You are absolutely correct about the later model column and perhaps down the road. But for now, I would like to put it somewhere without cutting up the pod or the dash. Has anyone tried to hang it below the light switch off the bottom of the dash? :help: I edited the 1st post to make it slightly clearer.

Jim, I think any where would be OK. I mean, as long as you can turn the wipers on when needed, and off when not needed. Where I live, that ain't very often. But now you, that's a different story, I've been to Dallas many times, and you never know.
But yes, under the dash would work, then when you score that Column, and can rustle up the time, change it.
Also, I would have thought that by now, you would have had 30 replies and suggestions.
Guess I was wrong on that one too. But I never claim to know it. :dontknow:
Luck to ya Brother.:beer:

Jim,

I've been pondering your question since I didn't have a good recommendation first time I read it. My first thought was an underdash, then maybe trick out the cigar lighter into a wiper switch, then decided if it was me, I'd replace the column and convert it to a stalk wiper switch. (not stock, stalk).

Or you could just disconnect the motor assembly and attach ropes to the wipers and around through the front windows and pull back and forth while you're driving. I actually saw someone do that back in the '70's, believe their initials were CB and was on a LTD.

Anyway, if it was me I would upgrade to the later version column.

Jim

I'm in the same boat, but I don't feel it's necessary to swap the column. Instead, why not just swap the turn signal stalk? Get a new one with the wiper switch integrated into it. I spoke with a guy who does steering column repair (something I want no part of) and he does that sort of stuff. I haven't done it yet, but I am going to.

Why not just use the original gauge faceplate? The bracket for your headlight switch and wiper switch will screw on the newer pod.

maybe you can use the dash bezel from a 86m/c that has the square hole cut into it adjust the hole or your sw. to fit & extend the wires to bring the switch to the right of the wheel.

You know CoyoteOn2 Wasn't always like that but one day he was snugging up the coil wire connectin to his MSD, With his teeth, while the Elky was running!:dontknow:

If the OP hasn't come up with a solution yet, I think speedy86 has the easiest and cleanest solution. I just went out and looked at and early and late pod and the tabs for mounting the switches are on both. Using an earlier faceplate not only retains the factory appearance but prevents having to do any rewiring/plug changes.

I'm in the same boat, but I don't feel it's necessary to swap the column. Instead, why not just swap the turn signal stalk? Get a new one with the wiper switch integrated into it. I spoke with a guy who does steering column repair (something I want no part of) and he does that sort of stuff. I haven't done it yet, but I am going to.

That's the answer! :You_Rock: Column's are actually quite simple. Does anyone know where to find new turn signal stalks? :dontknow:

Why not just use the original gauge faceplate? The bracket for your headlight switch and wiper switch will screw on the newer pod.

It's long gone and I have a late model hardwired gauge type pod. I would have to cut it to mount the wiper switch and I don't want to do that. Good idea though!