Removed windshield wiper and it got me thinking...

[Adam Frisch]

These things range in utility from useless to "never used". So, I removed mine. Who knows, might gain 0.5kts in speed....

But got me thinking - if you went further and removed the actual motor under there, you'd have a power source and a dedicated switch to operate it. I know I'm obsessed with lights, but it would be a good little spot for a flat projected structure with a low profile LED light source in it. Could both shine forward, or towards the side.

Any other uses for that space you could thing of that might need power? AOA display that's almost recessed and flush?

 

[donv]

I use my wipers quite a bit. The first time you taxi out after sitting out in the rain, you'll reinstall them...

[KenFlo]

I have yet to use them, but I have not taxied in pouring down rain yet.  I do clean them off anytime I suspect it might rain and require them.  Turning those on with dirt and sand on them is like cleaning your windshield with sandpaper.  I remember while in the military flying Apaches, many commanders had them removed for that very reason.  Of course most of use don't remember to change our automobile wiper blades until its raining!

[SKYFLYER]

It is sorta funny to think about as I can remember only a hand full of times that I have used them and virtually all were at the end of approaches in driving rain.

[donv]

I've never used them in the air, and never that I can think of on the runway. They are very useful when you get accumulated condensation on the outside of the windshield after starting up, and sometimes on taxi. In the air or even on the runway, the slipstream is generally enough to keep the windshield clear.

[SKYFLYER]

I have never used them inflight.  Actually I think they are prohibited above 140K.

But rolling out in a driving rain the slipstream is not enough to keep clear as well as when exiting to the taxiway.

[donv]

I think it is 140. I have heard from others that if you run them much over that speed, they go out but don't come back.

[Bruce Byerly]

If I recall correctly we looked into removal way back when and they are required equipment for ice certification.  Rarely needed but when you do, they are handy.

[Adam Frisch]

If I recall correctly we looked into removal way back when and they are required equipment for ice certification.  Rarely needed but when you do, they are handy.

Good to know.