Let’s Talk About Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor
For over a decade, I’ve made a career out of understanding what makes outdoor and tactical gear truly reliable. My experiences range from outfitting expeditions in the Alaskan wilderness to advising law enforcement on the most dependable equipment. Today, I’m turning my attention to a piece of equipment that’s vital for anyone who spends time on the water: the Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor.
Living in the Pacific Northwest, reliable marine gear is a must, not a luxury. The Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor promised a robust and waterproof solution for my boat’s windshield wiper system, replacing an aging motor that had succumbed to the relentless saltwater and rain.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the solid construction. The black powder lacquered aluminum cover and stainless steel shaft and mounting plate gave a reassuring impression of durability. Compared to the plastic housing of my previous motor, the Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor felt like a serious upgrade.
I considered other options, including motors from AFI and Bosch, but the Schmitt & Ongaro‘s focus on waterproof construction and adjustable sweep angle sealed the deal. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential for increased reliability and visibility during harsh weather conditions. I was eager to put this motor through its paces and see if it lived up to its claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor on my 24-foot fishing boat, a process that took about an hour, thanks to its standard mounting configuration. The first test run was during a salmon fishing trip in Puget Sound. A typical day in the sound includes intermittent rain and significant spray.
The Schmitt & Ongaro motor performed flawlessly. The adjustable sweep angle allowed me to fine-tune the wiper coverage, ensuring a clear view even with heavy spray. It was noticeably quieter than my old motor, a welcome improvement. The ease of use was immediately apparent – it simply worked as expected.
The only minor issue was the self-parking adjustment. Initially, it wasn’t perfectly aligned, requiring a slight tweak to ensure the wiper blade parked correctly. This was a simple fix, but something to note.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use, including several offshore trips and countless hours in rain and saltwater, the Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor has proven its worth. There are no signs of corrosion or wear, a testament to its waterproof design and quality materials. I appreciate the stainless steel shaft and mounting plate for repelling rust.
Maintenance has been minimal; I simply rinse it with fresh water after each trip. This is far less demanding than the constant cleaning and lubrication my previous motor required. Compared to my past experiences with less robust motors, the Schmitt & Ongaro has significantly outperformed them in terms of reliability and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor
Specifications
The Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and longevity. It operates on 12 volts, making it compatible with most marine electrical systems. The motor offers an adjustable sweep angle of 90 or 110 degrees, allowing for customized windshield coverage.
The stainless steel motor shaft and mounting plate provide excellent corrosion resistance, essential for marine environments. Its black powder lacquered aluminum cover adds further protection against the elements. This motor is designed for arm/blade combinations up to 14″/14″, accommodating a wide range of boat sizes.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the motor’s reliability and ability to withstand harsh marine conditions. The adjustable sweep angle ensures optimal visibility, while the robust materials guarantee a long service life. These features inspire confidence in the product.
Performance & Functionality
The Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor excels in its primary function: providing clear visibility in inclement weather. Its adjustable sweep angle allows for precise coverage, while its waterproof construction ensures reliable operation even in heavy rain or spray. The motor operates smoothly and quietly, enhancing the overall boating experience.
One strength is its ease of installation and use. The straightforward design and standard mounting configuration make it a breeze to replace existing wiper motors. A minor weakness is the initial self-parking adjustment. Overall, the Schmitt & Ongaro motor meets and exceeds my expectations, delivering consistent and reliable performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor features a robust and functional design. The black powder lacquered aluminum cover provides a sleek and durable finish. It also effectively protects the internal components. The weight is substantial, conveying a sense of quality and durability.
The motor is user-friendly. Its simple design makes it easy to install and operate. There’s no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its rugged construction and high-quality materials, the Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor is built to last. The stainless steel shaft and mounting plate ensure long-term corrosion resistance. Easy maintenance involves rinsing with fresh water after each use.
This minimal upkeep contributes to the motor’s long service life. The motor’s robust design and ease of maintenance suggest it will withstand the rigors of marine use for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor does not come with any additional accessories beyond the motor itself. There are no specific customization options offered by the manufacturer. However, it’s designed to be compatible with standard wiper arms and blades.
This allows users to choose from a wide variety of aftermarket options to suit their specific needs. The motor’s standard configuration also means it can be easily integrated with existing windshield wiper systems from other brands. This makes it a versatile replacement option.
Pros and Cons of Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor
Pros
- Waterproof Construction: Built to withstand harsh marine conditions, ensuring reliable performance in rain, spray, and saltwater.
- Adjustable Sweep Angle: Offers customizable windshield coverage for optimal visibility.
- Durable Materials: Stainless steel shaft and mounting plate provide excellent corrosion resistance.
- Easy Installation: Standard mounting configuration allows for a quick and straightforward replacement process.
- Quiet Operation: Runs smoothly and quietly, enhancing the overall boating experience.
Cons
- Self-Parking Adjustment: May require initial adjustment to ensure proper parking position.
- Limited Customization: Does not offer specific customization options beyond standard wiper arm and blade compatibility.
Who Should Buy Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor?
The Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor is perfect for boat owners. Specifically, those seeking a reliable and durable replacement for their existing windshield wiper system. It is ideal for anglers, recreational boaters, and commercial fishermen who operate in harsh marine environments.
Anyone who values clear visibility and dependable performance in inclement weather will appreciate this motor. Those who should skip this product are boaters who rarely encounter rain or spray. Also, anyone who are on a very tight budget might explore cheaper, less robust alternatives.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality wiper blade. This maximizes the motor’s effectiveness.
Conclusion on Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor
The Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor is a robust, reliable, and well-designed product that delivers on its promises. Its waterproof construction, adjustable sweep angle, and durable materials make it an excellent choice for boat owners seeking a dependable windshield wiper solution.
At $104.99, the price is justified by the motor’s quality, performance, and expected lifespan. Given my positive experience with the Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor, I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone in need of a reliable marine wiper motor.
Don’t let poor visibility ruin your time on the water! Invest in the Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Waterproof Standard Wiper Motor and experience the difference a quality wiper motor can make.