406 Saloon Rear Wiper

I was toddling along in my S reg 406 saloon this morning when I came up
behind a P reg 406 saloon. I was surprised to see that it had a rear wash
wipe that was fitted through the bottom of the rear screen. I was just
curious whether this was something that would have been fitted after market
or was it an option on the early 406 saloons? Anyone know?

 

I'd love one on my T reg 406.

It's surprising the difference not having one makes.

John

 

Tell me about it!!

 

It was an original factory fitting on certain 406 models - I think
I've only ever seen about 4 or 5. Not sure which models though

 

That's interesting. I have never understood the logic of fitting them on
hatches and estates but not saloons. The rain falls on them in exactly the
same way. It may swirl differently because of the different body shape
but you still can't see out the window.

 

Why have them in the first place ,i dont drive out my rear screen i use
my front screen also my mirrors.

 

I was taught to drive using all three mirrors.

I was also taught that when reversing, one should twist round slightly and
peer out of the back window in order to see where you're putting the car.
However you look at it, being able to see clearly through the back window
means you have a greater chance of being able to see what's around you,
and therefore less likely to be involved in an accident. Wing mirrors
alone leave a rather unpleasant blind spot that could easily contain a
motorbike.

When my rear window is gunked up (as it currently is with tree sap) it
takes longer to see who's behind me before I manouvre. I'll glance at the
rear view mirror and think "Damn, I really ought to get around to washing
that soon!" then have to double-check in the wing mirrors. The view isn't
totally obscured, but water, sap or whatever (which would have been
cleared on my Mondeo by a quick blast of the rear jet and a couple of
wipes) on the rear screen means you don't have the immediacy of a quick
glance.

Half seconds can mean the difference between someone going into the back
of you and not.

I'd like a rear wiper on my 406 and I'd be very willing to pay for it.

John

 

Agreed, when I took my test (and AA men still saluted you) the test papers
said that the rear view mirror should be used. You were advised by your
instructor to move your head so that the examiner could be sure the mirror
was being looked at. At that time (late 1950's), other than the expensive
models, cars were not provided with wing mirrors. They were something you
bought in Woolworth's or Halford's and fitted yourself along with indicators
and screen washers. None of these items were a legal requirement, just a
luxury. Come to think of it, even heaters (that used a shroud round part
of the radiator to gather warm air) and demisters (an electric element
mounted on an ali strip and stuck on with suction cups) were after market
luxuries as well. Stop me now or I'll bang on about starting handles!!!