Wiper Linkage

Remove and replace the windshield wiper linkage assembly on a 1992 Dodge Viper, including removal of cowl components and wiper motor access.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper linkage assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cowl seal (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Wiper arm bushings (if worn) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
4. Mark wiper arm positions on windshield with masking tape for proper reinstallation reference
5. Open hood and secure in upright position

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove wiper arms
   Lift each wiper arm away from the windshield and locate the retaining nut at the base of each arm. Remove the retaining nut from each wiper arm pivot. Use a rocking motion while pulling the wiper arm away from the pivot post to remove. Mark or note the resting/park position of each arm (driver and passenger) on the windshield for accurate reinstallation alignment.
2. 2

   Remove cowl grille panel
   Locate the cowl grille panel fasteners along the rear edge of the hood opening. Remove the fasteners securing the plastic cowl grille panel. These are typically located along the front edge and sides of the cowl. Carefully lift the cowl grille panel away from the cowl area, noting any clips that may retain the panel at the windshield edge. Disconnect any washer nozzle hoses if attached to the grille panel.
   ⚠Plastic cowl clips can be brittle; use care when releasing to avoid breakage
3. 3

   Access cowl plenum chamber
   With the cowl grille removed, inspect the cowl plenum area for the wiper motor and linkage assembly. Remove the cowl weather seal if it obstructs access to the linkage mounting points. Note the routing of the wiper motor electrical connector and any harness clips in the area.
4. 4

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connector
   Locate the wiper motor electrical connector on the motor housing. Release the connector retainer (locking tab or clip as equipped) and disconnect the electrical connector from the wiper motor. Position the connector away from the work area to prevent damage.
5. 5

   Remove wiper motor crank arm
   Locate the crank arm connection between the wiper motor output shaft and the linkage. Remove the retaining nut or clip securing the crank arm to the motor output shaft. Note the orientation of the crank arm for reinstallation. Carefully pry the crank arm from the motor shaft if necessary, taking care not to damage the motor housing.
   ⚠Linkage may shift under spring tension once disconnected from motor
6. 6

   Remove wiper motor mounting bolts
   Remove the 3 bolts securing the wiper motor to the cowl plenum structure. Support the motor as you remove the final bolt. Remove the wiper motor from the vehicle and set aside if replacement or inspection is needed.
   Torque spec

   Motor Mounting Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove linkage pivot nuts
   Locate the pivot points where the wiper linkage arms connect to the wiper posts (one on each side, driver and passenger). Remove the nuts securing the linkage pivots to the wiper posts. Note that these are accessed from inside the cowl plenum area.
   Torque spec

   Linkage Pivot Nuts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Remove wiper linkage assembly
   With all pivot nuts removed, carefully maneuver the wiper linkage assembly out of the cowl plenum chamber. The linkage will need to be angled and rotated to clear the cowl structure and wiper post openings. Take note of the linkage orientation and routing for reinstallation. Inspect the removed linkage for worn bushings, bent arms, or damaged pivot points.
9. 9

   Inspect and clean mounting surfaces
   Inspect the wiper post pivots and cowl mounting surfaces for corrosion, debris, or damage. Clean the pivot posts with a wire brush if corrosion is present. Inspect the cowl drain holes and clear any debris that may restrict water drainage. Check the condition of rubber bushings and grommets at the pivot points.
10. 10

    Install new wiper linkage assembly
    Position the new or serviced wiper linkage assembly into the cowl plenum chamber, routing it in the same orientation as noted during removal. Align the linkage pivot points with the wiper posts on both driver and passenger sides. Install the pivot nuts onto the wiper posts and hand-tighten initially. Ensure the linkage moves freely without binding before final tightening. Torque the pivot nuts to specification.
    Torque spec

    Linkage Pivot Nuts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall wiper motor
    Position the wiper motor into its mounting location on the cowl plenum structure. Align the mounting bolt holes and install the 3 mounting bolts. Torque the motor mounting bolts to specification. Connect the crank arm to the motor output shaft, ensuring proper orientation (typically with the motor in the park position). Install the crank arm retaining nut or clip.
    Torque spec

    Motor Mounting Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Connect linkage to motor crank arm
    Position the wiper linkage connection point onto the motor crank arm. Install the retaining clip or fastener securing the linkage to the crank arm. Ensure the connection is secure and the linkage can articulate freely. Manually move the linkage through its range of motion to verify smooth operation and proper motor shaft engagement.
13. 13

    Reconnect electrical and test operation
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the wiper motor, ensuring the locking tab engages fully. Before reinstalling cowl components, turn the ignition to the RUN position and test wiper operation in all available speed settings (and intermittent mode if equipped). Verify smooth operation, proper linkage travel, and that the motor returns to the park position when turned off. Turn ignition off after testing.
14. 14

    Reinstall cowl components
    Reinstall the cowl weather seal if it was removed. Position the cowl grille panel and align all mounting points. Reconnect any washer nozzle hoses to the grille panel. Install all cowl grille panel fasteners and ensure the panel is fully seated. Verify that no gaps exist between the panel and cowl structure.
15. 15

    Reinstall wiper arms
    Position each wiper arm onto its respective pivot post, aligning with the reference marks made during removal. Ensure the motor is in the park position before installing the arms. Install the retaining nut on each wiper arm and tighten securely. Verify that both wiper arms rest flat against the windshield and are properly aligned.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly routed
2. Verify cowl grille panel is fully seated with no rattles or loose fasteners
3. Check that wiper arms are in correct park position alignment
4. Test wiper and washer operation in all modes before returning vehicle to service

Verification

• Turn ignition to RUN and test wiper operation in all speed settings (low, high, intermittent)
• Verify both wiper blades travel smoothly across windshield without chattering or binding
• Confirm wipers return to proper park position when turned off
• Check for any unusual noise or vibration during wiper operation
• Verify wiper arms do not contact hood or cowl at any point in their travel
• Test washer function to ensure nozzles spray properly and wipers activate
• Inspect cowl area for any water leaks during washer operation

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