1. Preparation:
* Disconnect the battery: This is a crucial safety precaution to prevent accidental short circuits.
* Gather tools: You'll likely need a wiper arm puller (a specialized tool that makes the job much easier and prevents damage), and possibly a wrench or pliers. If you don't have a puller, you *might* be able to use large adjustable pliers, but this is riskier and more likely to damage the wiper arm or the splines on the wiper motor shaft.
2. Removing the Wiper Arms:
* Park the wipers: Ensure the wipers are in the "park" position (not resting on the windshield).
* Locate the nut (if any): Some wiper arms have a nut securing them to the wiper transmission arm. If present, loosen and remove this nut. This is *less common* on older vehicles.
* Use a wiper arm puller: This is the safest method. Position the puller claws around the wiper arm base, ensuring they are securely gripping the arm, but not damaging the paint. Tighten the puller's center nut, applying firm pressure to pull the arm away from the splined shaft. The arm should pop off with some resistance.
* Alternative (less recommended): If you don't have a puller, you might try very carefully using large adjustable pliers, but this is risky. You could easily damage the wiper arm or the shaft's splines, making them harder to remove or reattach and potentially causing leaks or damage to the motor. Try to grip the wiper arm as close to the pivot point as possible. You may need to use a penetrating oil to help loosen things up if they're seized.
3. Reinstallation:
Reinstallation is the reverse of removal. If you had to use penetrating oil, make sure everything is clean before reassembling. Using a new washer is often recommended to prevent leaks.
Important Considerations:
* Stubborn Wiper Arms: If the arms are very stubborn, use a penetrating oil (like PB Blaster) and let it soak in for a while before attempting to remove the arms.
* Spline Damage: If you damage the splines on the wiper arm or the shaft, the wiper arm might not attach securely. If this happens, you might need to replace the wiper transmission.
* Wiper Arm Position: Pay close attention to the position of the wiper arms before removal. This will make reinstallation much easier. Mark their position with tape or a marker if necessary.
Again, I strongly recommend consulting a 1990 Dodge Dakota repair manual or a trusted online resource with specific information for your vehicle's year and model. Improper removal can lead to damage. If you're uncomfortable performing this task, it's best to take it to a qualified mechanic.
