I decided I needed to pull the Trico vacuum motor out and see why it was not working. At the time it would pull to one side and stop. If I pushed the arm a little further I could get it to return. But no repeat action. Pulled it apart and it was a sticky mess. Cleaned everything up and put it back together. I did not have a rebuild kit. Moves easily now. Seems very strong but I still don’t have any reticulation action. What did I miss?
Last edited by ChevyDarren; 03/16/20232:50 AM.
Darren Current Project - 1950 3100 5 Window with a rebuilt 216 and 3 speed trans
Just an observation based on the pictures you posted.
There appears to be a big lack of lubricant (grease) inside of the unit which is essential to the vacuum movement of the paddle assembly.
Also, without more detail about what you did or didn't do with the piston seals (they need to be soft, pliable and lubed too to allow for sealing of the pistons themselves), it's hard to specify what needs more "doing".
On another note, what did you do about the torn gasket. If you didn't replace it (or at least seal it up to prevent vacuum leaks), that will hamper the operation of your vacuum motor too.
Suggestion: Do a web search for repairing and/or rebuilding "Trico" vacuum motors. There are several videos out there (not all Chevy specific but they will give you a good understanding of basics needed) to provide some direction on what may help with your problem.
Am sure that others will chime in here soon too with more suggestions and experiences.
Dan
Last edited by Gdads51; 02/27/20231:26 AM.
~ Dan 1951 Chevy 3 window 3100 Follow this story in the DITY Gallery "My Grandpa Carl's Truck and How it Became Mine" 1966 Chevelle (Wife's Hot Rod) | 2013 Chevy Silverado (Current daily driver) US Army MSG Retired (1977-1998) | Com Fac Maint Lead Tech Retired (1998-2021)
Over time the oil in the grease, for the paddle, evaporates. Even NOS motors may need maintenance.
"bouymaker",
Just a note that I copied and posted your link for the eBay item in the Swap Meet Other Online Sources forum .
That snapshot of the "Trico" parts chart is great info too.
Thanks for posting!
~ Dan 1951 Chevy 3 window 3100 Follow this story in the DITY Gallery "My Grandpa Carl's Truck and How it Became Mine" 1966 Chevelle (Wife's Hot Rod) | 2013 Chevy Silverado (Current daily driver) US Army MSG Retired (1977-1998) | Com Fac Maint Lead Tech Retired (1998-2021)
If originality is not a primary concern, you could use an aftermarket electric wiper. I did on my 1957. However, it did stop working when I first got it. I cleaned the contact area and it has worked ever since (about ten years now). Plus no vacuum issues. don
Send it off to get rebuilt by wiper man: http://www.wiperman.com/ Mine worked better than they ever had when I got it back. Reasonable price too.
I agree. Due to the lack of replacement parts on the market, I sent mine out a few years ago and they did a great job. If you want to retain the uniqueness and originally I think it’s the way to go. Cost me $135 plus shipping in 2019.
Phil Moderator, The Engine Shop, Interiors and Project Journals
1952 Chevrolet 3100, Three on the Tree, 4:11 torque tube Updated to: ‘59 235 w/hydraulic lifters, 12v w/alternator, HEI, PCV and Power front Disc Brakes Project Journals Stovebolt Gallery Forum
Did more research, pulled mine apart, cleaned away all the grease, found a new gasket, used sewing machine oil to lube the interior. Recommendation from a YouTube model T wiper rebuild, closed it back up. Had to purchase a donor for one small part that was broken. Most likely from me trying to take a shortcut using brake fluid as a cleaner. Working great now. Pretty simple mechanical motor. Thank you for all the input.
Darren Current Project - 1950 3100 5 Window with a rebuilt 216 and 3 speed trans
