Interpretation ID: nht75-1.11
DATE: 08/25/75
FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; F. Berndt; NHTSA
TO: American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
TITLE: FMVSS INTERPRETATION
TEXT: I am writing to confirm your telephone conversation of August 4, 1975, with Mark Schwimmer concerning the applicability of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 101, Control Location, Identification and Illumination, to an intermittent-operation windshield wiper switch.
Your letter of June 4, 1975, described such an intermittent operation switch which is distinct from the normal windshield wiper switch. As Mr. Schwimmer explained, Standard No. 101 requires neither illumination nor any particular location for this intermittent switch, because the normal switch is already subject to all of the standard's requirements.
SINCERELY,
June 4, 1975
Richard B. Dyson NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION
This is to request your official interpretation as to the applicability of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards in the case of an 'intermittent-operation' windshield wiper switch. The switch would be offered as a dealer installed option and is intended for use when driving in light rain.
I am enclosing photographs showing the recommended switch positions, photo A shows placement on vehicles fitted with air conditioning, photo B is without airconditioning. The location of the standard wiper switch is shown in both photos.
The optional switch has a non-illuminated control knob identified by a windshield wiper symbol and the letters 'INT'.
The switch will cause the wipers to operate intermittently, one stroke across the windshield and back to the parked position, at intervals ranging from 2 to 10 seconds depending upon the degree of rotation of the control from the 'ON' position. The intermittent operation switch will operate the wipers when the standard wiper switch is in the 'OFF' position; switching ON the standard switch will over-ride the intermittent operation.
I would appreciate your early response on this matter. Please contact me if you need further information.
AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Brian Gill Assistant Manager Safety & Environmental Activities (Graphics omitted)