1. Disconnect the Battery: This is crucial for safety to prevent accidental shorts.
2. Remove the Wiper Arms:
* Lift the wiper arms: Carefully lift each wiper arm away from the windshield. They're usually held in place by a spring-loaded mechanism. You might need to use a wiper arm puller tool (available at most auto parts stores) to prevent damage to the arm or the wiper motor. If you don't have a puller, try gently prying the arm with a flat-head screwdriver, working your way around the base. Be very careful not to scratch the windshield.
* Note the position: Make note of the orientation of the arms before removing them. This will help you reinstall them correctly. Some people use masking tape to mark the position on the windshield.
3. Access the Wiper Motor and Linkage:
* Remove the cowl: The cowl is the plastic cover that sits beneath the windshield wipers. This will require removing screws and possibly clips holding it in place. The location and number of these fasteners vary. Consult a repair manual or look for visible screws and clips.
* Disconnect the wiper motor connector: Once the cowl is removed, locate the electrical connector for the wiper motor and carefully disconnect it.
* Remove linkage: The wiper motor is connected to the wiper arms via a linkage system. This may involve removing nuts, bolts, or clips holding the linkage in place. Again, consult a repair manual as the linkage design can be complex.
4. Remove the Wiper Motor (if necessary):
* Disconnect any remaining linkages and vacuum lines: There might be additional vacuum lines or linkages connected to the wiper motor. Disconnect them carefully.
* Remove mounting bolts: The wiper motor is typically secured to the vehicle's body by bolts. Unscrew these bolts to remove the motor assembly.
5. Reassembly:
Reassembly is the reverse of disassembly. Make sure everything is properly connected and tightened securely before reinstalling the cowl and wiper arms. Test the wipers to ensure proper operation.
Crucial Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1991 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Royale is highly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions specific to your vehicle's make and model.
* Pictures: Take plenty of pictures during the disassembly process. This will be invaluable during reassembly.
* Patience: This is not a simple task, and it requires patience and careful attention to detail.
If you're uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improperly reinstalling the wiper system can lead to damage and malfunction.
