Auto Parts: Wiper arms, ford fairlane 500, 1957 ford fairlane

Question
Hi I have a 1957 Ford Fairlane 500 convertible and I can not find new wiper arms for it anything else that will fit? Thanks Rick

Answer
    Anco still sells the wiper arm that fits these old cars.  It's a part number 41-02.  Unless you live in an unusual area, you will probably not be able to find these in stock at any parts store.  I can remember when we stocked them at the last store I worked at, but we had to get rid of them to make room for all of the fancy wipers for the newer cars; wipers are one of the few things people can change themselves, so they sell really well at the retail level.  Find a store that has an Anco catalog in their rack (if you can find a store that still has a catalog rack), and check the listing for your car (I think that they list older cars in a separate section, or at least they used to).  Sometimes these older style wiper arms required adapters, depending on what they were being used on, so check the listing for that, as well.  If it calls for an adapter, order that, too.  If they say you  have to order a bag of them or something, don't complain, just pony up the cash.  If you end up with extras you can sell or give them to your friends with similarly old Fords.
    Another possibility is a marine wiper arm.  Most marine wiper arms are very similar or identical to the arms used on cars back in the fifties and sixties.  Plus, they are usually chromed or polished stainless, which looks cool; all you're going to get in automotive wiper arms are a dull gray finish.  Needless to say, you'll have to take an old wiper arm with you if you go to a marine store.  Living on the Chesapeake, I have a lot of marine resources available; you may not have the same wherever you are, but it's worth a shot.