Windshield Wipers clogged with ice

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by tscottme, Jan 2, 2021.

  1. j50wells

    j50wells Bobtail Member

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    May 23, 2011
    Williamsport PA
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    I run nights over Colorado mountain passes five nights a week. Up there, its always in the single digits at night. Even if you run the heater on full blast, the snow will start to crust around the wipers, and then, presto, the snow will just smear across the windshield. Of course we know what happens then; the ice starts to build up on the windshield itself.

    So what does one do? Well, you can pull over every five miles and clean the ice off. But who wants to do that? Not me. Here’s what I do: Let’s call it the wap. That’s right, W-A-P, wap. Basically, roll the window down while driving. Stick your trusty left arm out the window and wrap it around the front of the windshield. This should be real fun, with snowflakes hitting you in the eyebrows, and the 5 degree air numbing up your cheeks.

    When the wiper comes back across your windshield, give it a good wap with your hand. You might have to do this 4–5 times. There, now you can see. But wait, its a heavy snow that night. You might have to do the wap thing again, and again, all the way back to Denver.

    PS- Be careful not to cut your fingers when doing the WAP.
     
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  3. snowwy

    snowwy Road Train Member

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    I lower my visor. That helps to trap the defrost heat on the windshield.
     
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  4. larry2903

    larry2903 Heavy Load Member

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    On the trails
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    Did you ever get them installed?
     
  5. gentleroger

    gentleroger Road Train Member

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    Be more careful you'd don't bend the arm trying to do it.
     
  6. JonJon78

    JonJon78 Road Train Member

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    How much rubbing alcohol are you guys mixing with the washer fluid?
     
  7. Siinman

    Siinman Road Train Member

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    Kansas City, MO.
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    Old thread but most trucks can be ordered with the windshield heated. I ordered mine last year and got it this year with it .
     
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  8. Gomer1969

    Gomer1969 Light Load Member

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    Jan 13, 2013
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    I run a bottle of rubbing alcohol in the wiper fluid reservoir and use the defrost/floor heat. It works good for me.
     
  9. Siinman

    Siinman Road Train Member

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    Kansas City, MO.
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    I just ordered some of this because I make my own window washing fluid. Have not tried it out yet but will this weekend. Screenshot 2022-11-29 at 8.33.08 PM.png
     
  10. WesternPlains

    WesternPlains Road Train Member

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    Add rubbing alcohol to the washer fluid for anti freeze.
    .
    This I’ve thought of trying.
    Attach the bare end of an insulated wire to the engine block. Attach the other end to the wiper frame.
     
  11. Dennixx

    Dennixx Road Train Member

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    Feb 13, 2010
    twin cities
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    I have a wap stick..
    Beveled edge about 16" long.
    Never knew it had a name..lol
     
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