I love the 3 wiper configuration on the Toyota FJ Cruiser, however, there is a very limited selection of quality blades for the center and passenger side. In an attempt to remedy this I decided to modify 2 rainX Latitude Wiper Blades. The shortest blade available is 16 inches and the center and right blades need to be 14 inches. Here are the steps I followed to create 2 14 inch blades.
RainX Latitude Blades
Original Blade
The end caps must first be removed. They fit into notches on the side and must be pried off.
Once the both end caps are removed all the parts of the blade can also be removed.
Removing top cap
Removing retainer
All the parts removed
After the parts are all removed they need to be shortened.
The blade can but shortened by 2 inches.
Blade after being cut
The Metal blade spring must be trimmed by 1 inch on each and and the end cap retaining notches cut into the spring.
Wiper Spring Cut
Wiper spring with new notch
Blade holder cut
Once all the parts have been trimmed the blades can be reassembled.
Replacing the blade holder
Replacing the blade
Replacing the top cap
Completed blade
With these blades installed I now have a great set of winter wipers.
Wow! Thanks for the advise. I tried it and it really works!
Looks like a great way to get into the first new wiper design in 50 years. The only question I have is does the bulk of the Latitude design distract you when driving?
Not at all…
Why not just buy regular rain-x 14″ blades!
Do they have to be Latitude?
The third listing on google has them !
Even has a photo!
Thanks
Will order my three of then now
Great idea.
love it. ! Thanks
Thanks for the help. I needed to make a 14″ blade for my wife’s nissan rogue. I was nervous about removing the end caps; scared they would break/snap trying to remove them. Everything worked though. Thanks for the helpful info.
I just modified a 16″ blade for the rear of my Taurus X. Took 1″ off the arm pivit end and 1/2″ of the outer end. Had to trim the end cap on the shorter end to clear the spring on the wiper arm. I filled the end cap opening with silicone. Works great! These Laditude blades are the greatest. Thanks for the idea.
Thanks for the great idea. My son was getting disappointed on not being able to find the wiper blades that everyone else in the family had. Did you try the same thing with that 9″ stub in the back?
We are having a difficult time removing the end caps. Are there any tricks anyone can provide?
What on earth are you cutting the metal with? How are you cutting out the notches? I too had issues with the end caps. Any suggestions??