Uncategorised

Old Holden Wipers: A Practical Buying Guide (Pre-1980)

If you’re looking for old Holden wipers, you’ll often find cars running mismatched parts after decades of repairs and re-builds. The result is usually poor wiping, incorrect park position, and a look that doesn’t match the era.

WHY HOLDEN WIPERS ARE OFTEN WRONG ON RESTORED CARS

  • Modern blades that clash with classic styling; early Holden’s used the hook and flat blade, then the spoon style and finally the bayonet style. No other styles were used
  • Incorrect blade lengths
  • Wrong connector/arm width (5.2mm vs 7.2mm)
  • Tired arms with weak tension springs

Use this guide to determine the type you have: Build Your Own Custom Wipers

THE 3 HOLDEN CHECKS (DO THESE FIRST)

1) Measure blade length (both sides) as they are not always the same length. If they are different, chances are someone has fitted the wrong blades.

2) Confirm bayonet/arm width: 5.2mm or 7.2mm

3) Check arm tension and alignment

HOLDEN FITMENT DETAIL MANY PEOPLE MISS: SPLINED DRIVE SIZE

If you’re replacing arms, confirm your drive size as well:

  • 9/16″ (14mm) splined drive (often referenced as Lucas style) These were fitted to all holdens up to and including MOST EK’s
  • 5/8″ (16mm) splined drive These were fitted to all Holdens from late EK’s through to HZ

Getting this right ensures the arm seats correctly and holds its position.

WHAT TO BUY (AND WHY)

Option A: Full kit (best for restorations)

A matched kit reduces fitment mistakes and supports a consistent classic style finish.

Option B: Blades (best when arms are correct and rust free)

If your arms are proven, replacing blades often restores wiping performance quickly—especially if you choose spring loaded blades designed for positive contact with the windscreen.

Option C: Arms (best when wipe is inconsistent or arms look tired)

Replacing arms can improve both appearance and real-world wipe quality. Many restorers prefer hand polished stainless steel options for a clean, period-correct finish.

TIPS & TRICKS FOR BETTER WIPING

  • Clean the glass thoroughly before fitting new blades—road film causes instant streaking.
  • If one side streaks more than the other, it’s commonly an arm tension or alignment issue.
  • If you’ve got a modified Holden (custom screen, altered geometry), measure everything and don’t assume factory fitment.

FITMENT CORNER (HOLDEN OWNERS)

  • Bayonet width: confirm 5.2mm or 7.2mm arm width.
  • Drive size: confirm 9/16″ (14mm) splined drive or 5/8″ (16mm) splined drive.
  • Performance: spring loaded blades can improve positive contact with the windscreen.

Examples of various wiper arms available: https://www.classicwipersandmirrors.au/product-category/wiper-arms-classic-style-stainless-steel/

Examples of various wiper blades: https://www.classicwipersandmirrors.au/product-category/wiper-blades-classic-style-stainless-steel/

FAQ

Q: Why do many restored Holdens have poor wiper performance?

A: Mixed parts, wrong blade lengths, and tired arms with weak tension are common.

Q: What should I check first on old Holden wipers?

A: Blade length (both sides), 5.2mm vs 7.2mm arm width, and arm tension/alignment.

Q: Why does splined drive size matter?

A: If the arm doesn’t match the 9/16″ (14mm) or 5/8″ (16mm) splined drive, it may not seat securely or hold position.

Q: Do spring loaded blades help on older windscreens?

A: Yes—spring loaded blades help maintain positive contact with the windscreen, improving wipe consistency.

Q: Are hand polished stainless steel parts worth considering?

A: They’re popular for restorations because they suit classic styling and resist corrosion while keeping a clean finish.