Easy fix/replacement for the windshield washer foot pump check valve

Written by Tom Jennings, edited by Frank Swygert 02-02-2026

AMC and Cadillac both used this unique three-legged double check valve in the windshield washer squirter system. For AMC at least there is a foot-pressed rubber bulb that acts as simple “pump”, but requires two check valves to move water one way, to the nozzle on the hood. Almost all US manufacturers used a pump bulb setup in the 50s and 60s. They were replaced with electric by 1970.

These all seem to have died from old (plastic) age. Used ones have the same problem (hose nipples break off). When I saw a new part go for fifty bucks I figured it was time to invoke Rambler Mentality and find a cheaper, robust solution.

It ain’t concours, but it squirts water. Two generic washer check valves and a plastic tee work as good, or better, than stock. My cost was under $10 bucks. Installs and works first time. The bulb squirts when you press, draws when you take your foot off. The check valves make the water flow one way only. Yours  might look different; just make sure water flow is in the same direction with the tee in the middle.

I used two Anco 48-21 valves, a plastic tee and washer hose from my parts shelf. A substitute for the Anco is the ACI 399004 ($12 on Amazon, $10.29 at Advance Auto Parts, Feb 2026). Any check valve will do.  Frank found a pair selling for $8 on E-bay with free shipping (Feb 2026).

Frank: One of these newer model three nipple check valve should work and will be a more compact and elegant solution. Note that I said should work — I haven’t tried one! Search “windshield washer check valve” on your favorite search engine or amazon. They come up on amazon for $7-$10 (Feb 2026).