Wiper Linkage

Remove and replace the windshield wiper linkage assembly on a 2005 Dodge Viper, including disconnection of the wiper motor and cowl access.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Windshield wiper linkage assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cowl grommets (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake
2. Ensure the wiper arms are in the parked position
3. Allow the engine to cool completely if recently driven
4. Open the hood and secure it in the open position

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery
   Disconnect the negative battery terminal using a 10mm wrench or socket. Move the cable away from the terminal and secure it to prevent accidental contact during the repair.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove wiper arms
   Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield. Locate the retaining nut at the base of each wiper arm and remove it. Mark the position of each wiper arm on the pivot shaft before removal for proper reinstallation alignment. Pull the wiper arm straight off the splined shaft. Remove both driver and passenger side wiper arms.
3. 3

   Remove cowl screen covers
   Remove the plastic cowl screen covers that span the base of the windshield. These typically have retaining fasteners along the edges. Check for screws or clips at the outer edges near the fenders and along the center section. Carefully pry up the cowl covers using plastic trim tools, working from one end to the other to release any remaining clips. Lift the cowl covers away to expose the wiper linkage and motor assembly below.
4. 4

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connector
   Locate the wiper motor on the driver side of the cowl area. Press the release tab on the electrical connector and pull it straight off the wiper motor. Ensure the connector is moved clear of the work area.
5. 5

   Remove wiper motor mounting bolts
   Remove the bolts securing the wiper motor to the cowl structure (verify exact count against the OEM service manual). Support the motor as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Motor Mounting Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Disconnect linkage from motor crank arm
   Locate the linkage connection to the wiper motor crank arm. This is typically a ball-and-socket or clip-type connection. Use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully pry the linkage arm off the motor crank pin. Do not damage the plastic socket or ball stud during removal.
7. 7

   Remove linkage pivot mounting hardware
   Identify the pivot points where the linkage assembly mounts to the cowl structure (verify exact count and location against the OEM service manual). Remove the nuts or bolts at each pivot point. Note the orientation and any spacers or washers for reassembly.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove wiper linkage assembly
   With all mounting hardware removed, carefully maneuver the wiper linkage assembly out of the cowl area. The linkage may need to be rotated or angled to clear obstructions. Remove the entire linkage assembly including all connecting arms and pivot points as a complete unit.
9. 9

   Inspect mounting points and grommets
   Inspect the cowl mounting points for corrosion or damage. Check all rubber grommets where the linkage pivots pass through the cowl for cracking or deterioration. Replace any damaged grommets before installing the new linkage. Clean debris from the cowl area.
10. 10

    Install new wiper linkage assembly
    Position the new wiper linkage assembly into the cowl area, maneuvering it through the opening in the same orientation as removal. Align all pivot points with their corresponding mounting holes in the cowl structure. Install the pivot mounting nuts or bolts finger-tight initially to allow for alignment adjustment.
    Torque spec

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

    Connect linkage to wiper motor
    Position the wiper motor so the crank arm is accessible. Attach the linkage arm to the motor crank pin, ensuring the ball-and-socket or clip connection is fully seated and secure. Verify the connection is secure by gently pulling on the linkage.
12. 12

    Install wiper motor
    Position the wiper motor against its mounting surface on the cowl. Install the mounting bolts (verify exact count against the OEM service manual) and tighten to specification. Reconnect the electrical connector to the wiper motor, ensuring it clicks into place.
    Torque spec

    Motor Mounting Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reinstall cowl screen covers
    Position the cowl screen covers over the wiper linkage area. Align all mounting holes and clips. Press down firmly along the edges to seat any retaining clips. Install any screws or fasteners that secure the cowl covers and tighten to specification.
14. 14

    Reinstall wiper arms
    Align each wiper arm with the marks made during removal. Press the wiper arm onto the splined shaft in the correct orientation. Install the retaining nut on each wiper arm and tighten securely. Ensure the wiper arms are in the correct parked position.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten the terminal bolt to specification. Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine does not need to run). Test the wiper system in all operational modes: intermittent, low speed, high speed, and mist. Verify smooth operation without binding, proper park position, and that both wiper blades move in sync across the windshield.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Torque all fasteners to specification using a calibrated torque wrench
2. Verify all electrical connections are secure and fully seated
3. Ensure cowl covers are properly seated with no gaps that could allow water intrusion
4. Confirm wiper arms are in the correct orientation and park position before final testing

Verification

• Operate wipers through all speed settings and verify smooth, synchronized movement
• Check that wipers park in the correct position when turned off
• Verify no unusual noises, binding, or hesitation during operation
• Inspect for proper wiper blade contact across the entire windshield sweep area
• Test intermittent wiper function to confirm proper operation
• Check for any water leaks around cowl covers during first rain or car wash

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