PROJECT-A-PALOOZA!! - Wiper Delay Panel

[Ray]

Well, as everyone has opined, I really found a need for a wiper delay for at least the helm location.

I was really interested in making something that didn't disrupt the existing system, or need to be wired to the motors, etc.

I went to my "go-to" source for all of these kinds of projects -- (of course) ebay.

I noted that our C-Dory wiper systems just send 12V to the wiper motor when on, and nothing when off. The wipers park themselves, etc. So all I needed was something that could switch on 12V for a few seconds on a delay and I would just parallel that with the help switch/breaker.

I found an automotive wiper delay that had a relay output that could be configured to output 12V on its output contacts. The part number at the time on ebay was a MXA041. They are around $10. Here is what it looks like and some of the documentation:





This schematic is for the module board only:



Now, I didn't want to have to reach down wherever the module board was to adjust the timing, so I unsoldered the potentiometer from the board and made it "remote" using some small wires.

Additionally, I thought about adding a single pushbutton switch that duplicated the relay output and could be used as a on-time "mist" function.

Finally, I wanted to have either the helm position, or both wipers be activated at whatever setting I had it on, so I needed another switch for that.

Here is what I ended up with for an overall schematic:



With this arrangement I could have a variable delay, a one-button mist function, and a switch to include the helm-only or both wipers. All for about $20 worth of parts.

The REALLY nice thing is that I didn't have to mess with any of the original wiring or operation - it was completely stand-alone, piggy-backing onto the existing helm switches/breakers. In fact the existing switches would STILL work just fine. If I didn't like it, or if it broke, it could just be removed and the factory install completely unmolested.

I found a knob-top that fit the variable pot and a few switches that looked neat, and mounted them onto a thin strip of starboard I had. The whole add-on could be made up into a small sub-assembly with a panel, wires for 12V, Ground, and the two wiper motor switch outputs.



It was a pretty easy install, except for cutting the hole next to the helm - I never like cutting holes int he boat.

To piggyback on the helm breakers, I just used one of those spade connector "doublers" from the auto parts store. They are gold things in the photo below - I labeled the existing factory wires and my new piggyback connections.



And here it is finally in! I get a glitch every rare now and again when both wipers are on - it may be that the relay contacts can't handle both motors start up current, but after only $10 I can replace or add a better on if it becomes a problem. Here is the small panel right next to the helm seat.



Fair Winds!

Ray

[thataway]

Another brilliant project! Thanks.

[hardee]

WOW Ray, You do nice work. Excellent write-up again, and same with the pix,

Harvey
SleepyC

[JamesTXSD]

Very nicely done, Ray! Always a treat to see the mods you do on your boats. Thanks for sharing here.

Best wishes,
Jim

[rogerbum]

Nice project and write-up. I just ordered two of those delay modules off of e-bay. One to do the same thing with and a spare for backup.