Understanding Wiper Arm Types: Commercial Duty, Heavy Duty, and Standard Duty

Standard Duty Wiper Arms

Standard duty wiper arms are ideal for everyday vehicles that operate under normal conditions, such as passenger cars and light-duty trucks. These arms:

• Offer a balance between durability and cost

• Are often adjustable to suit various windshield sizes

• Commonly use simple interfaces like drum or knurled connections

They’re perfect for routine driving where weather and debris aren’t extreme.

Heavy Duty Wiper Arms

For vehicles that encounter tougher environments—think delivery trucks, construction vehicles, or agricultural machinery—heavy duty wiper arms are the go-to option. These arms feature:

• Reinforced construction for superior strength and longevity

• Stronger interfaces such as straight spline couplings

• Enhanced performance under frequent or high-torque use

Heavy duty arms resist bending, vibrations, and wear in strenuous conditions, keeping the windshield clear even when the going gets rough.

Commercial Duty Wiper Arms

Commercial duty wiper arms are designed for large vehicles like buses, RVs, and commercial fleets that demand maximum coverage and robust operation. Key features include:

• Extra-wide bridge widths for expansive windshield areas

• Complex connection options, including tapered knurl and multi-link interfaces

• Options for integrated washer fluid delivery ("wet" arms)

These are engineered for nonstop service and demanding environments, offering reliability on long drives or in severe weather.

Which Should You Choose?

• For passenger vehicles: standard duty is typically sufficient.

• For vehicles in challenging or industrial environments: heavy duty is recommended.

• For commercial or specialty applications: commercial duty arms deliver the optimal combination of durability and specialty features.

If you’re unsure which wiper arm fits your needs, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We’re happy to help you select—or customize—the ideal solution.