Terry,Hudson had an optional windshield washer system available through their dealers made by Trico. Trico used a large jar attached to the passenger side inner wheel well shield. Trico supplied these units to a number of car manufacturers at the time.The Hudson logo was on the bracket that held the washer jar. All of the 51's came with a windshield wiper knob and in the center of the knob was a button for activating the washer unit if so equipped. Vacuum was obtained either directly off the manifold or from the top half of a double action fuel pump.. The big problem was that in the Fall of the year a lot of people forgot to change out the washer fluid to alcohol and the water that remained in the jar would cause it to crack because of subsequent freezing temps as the season wore on. Nozzles for washer spray were screwed into the places where Trico had placed plug screws on the wiper head.

I haven't tried to remove the small screws on the stanchions but I'm sure they'll be a bear to remove. My wipers are 12v now and I used an extra radio knob on the 12v switch to match the rest on the dash so if I use the vacuum system (if I can find one) I'll have to locate the vacuum washer switch( with the button- which I do have) to a different location. That's why I'm considering the foot pump type, they're available and look easy to install- which is completely opposite of the way I usually do things! I got your PM, Lance. Let me know what you have. Terry

Thanks to Ron S. and Lance W., I now have all the items for the washer system for my '51. The pump was taken apart and lubed and works with a hand held vacuum pump. I have an electric wiper motor so I don't have the fuel pump with the vacuum chamber on it so, is there a downside to using vacuum right off the intake manifold?....there's a small plug on the firewall side that I could use as a tap. The engine idles at a rock steady 18HG's at this plug. Terry

Terry, You can tap right off the intake manifold to get your vacuum. In fact thats how single action fuel pump cars obtain vacuum if they have a washer system.. The pipe plug ought to be on the manifold below the carb boss on the two bbl cars.

Good to know, thanks, Terry